Abstract: A point of sale photographic film package also functions as a non-prepaid mailer to a pre-designated professional film processor. In one embodiment, a film cassette or cartridge is sold in a sealed container, such as an envelope or "bubble pack" card, having a removable label which overlies the name and address of a film processor. The label bears film-identifying indicia on one side thereof and a customer-identifying form on the reverse side. The container further includes (i) indicia or perforations for facilitating access to the film cassette while leaving the container substantially intact for re-use, and (ii) an adhesive strip for resealing the container after the original seal is broken to gain access to the film cassette therein. Upon opening the sealed container and using the film, the customer may have the film processed by returning the exposed film and the container together with the label bearing the completed customer identification form, which includes customer credit information.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing an undeveloped filmstrip contained in a reel. The apparatus comprises at least one processing tank containing a processing solution therein. A holding mechanism is provided for holding and retaining the processing reel and for positioning the processing reel within the at least one processing tank so that the filmstrip can be submerged within the processing solution contained in the at least one processing tank. An agitation mechanism is provided and comprises a motor and a propeller connected to the motor. The propeller is disposed within the tank for agitating the processed solution contained in the tank. The motor is activated as the reel is being lowered into the processing solution causes the processing solution to be moved past the filmstrip as it is being placed within the processing solution.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for receiving exposed film, processing the exposed film, printing the processed film so as to produce prints, and dispensing of the prints and processed film to a customer. The apparatus includes a mechanism for delivering to the apparatus an exposed strip of film. The film has a first unexposed area and a second exposed area containing images. A mechanism is also provided for providing a reference exposure onto the first unexposed area. The apparatus also includes a processing section for processing the exposed film so as to develop the images on a second area of the film and the reference exposure on the first area a section for scanning the first and/or second areas so as to obtain information regarding the photometric balance of the film. The apparatus prints the film in accordance with the information data received from the scanner. A storage and dispensing mechanism is provided for each customer order.

Abstract: An apparatus for processing a filmstrip contained in a film cartridge, the filmstrip having a trailing end secured to the cartridge. The apparatus includes at least one processing tank for holding a processing solution therein and a holding mechanism for holding and retaining a film cartridge containing a filmstrip. The holding mechanism includes a reel assembly for receiving and holding a portion of the filmstrip as it exits the film cartridge. The reel assembly capable of being positioned within the at least one processing tank so that the filmstrip will be submersed within a processing solution contained in the at least one processing tank.