Dirty Film Box from Freestyle, Anyone else?

gbenaim · Aug 3, 2007

Hi All,

I just got some 8x10 arista.edu film from freestyle, and the box looks like it's been sitting out in the sun or something, covered in blotches. Unfortunately, having already paid for international shipping and duties it isn't worth my while to send it back, but I was wondering if anyone has had similar experience, and what you'd do in my place. Thanks,

GB

Murray@uptowngallery · Aug 3, 2007

1) Rule out transit/postal service issues (external packaging also like that, or product packaging uniquely damaged?).

2) Determine condition of product; satisfactory or not.

3) Let Freestyle know outcome of above. If product is unsatisfactory they should do something for you. If merely cosmetic, you may still want to let them know, that while functional, you had concerns about product freshness.

If they take care of you, offer credit on next order, etc., it was worth the effort to follow up with them and maybe you and Freestyle stay on speaking terms.

Other option is not communicate with them and take your chances with another supplier in the future. I think give them a chance to satisfy you.

ricksplace · Aug 3, 2007

I had a problem with a lot number of film I bought from Freestyle. They replaced the film no questions asked. I have found them to give first rate service. No, I don't work for them, or know anyone who does.

Terence · Aug 3, 2007

I have the same product and it matches your description. After looking at the boxes for a while, I'm not positive, but I think it's supposed to look that way. On my boxes, the mottling is almost too uniform to be accidental. If this is indeed the case, it is a bad marketing decision.

For what it's worth, my film seems fine.

rtuttle · Aug 3, 2007

I have never heard anyone fault Freestyle's customer service. If it's their fault I'm sure they will make good on it. I have never had issue with them. In fact even though I live on the east coast and could get my stuff much quicker from NYC (I can even drive there in 90 minutes) I buy from Freestyle because I'm much more satisfied with how I'm treated. (testimonial off!)

srs5694 · Aug 3, 2007

I agree with the above advice, but I'll add this: Check the expiration date. This of course won't tell you if the box was stored next to a blast furnace, but it will at least tell you if it's been sitting in the store since Ronald Reagan was President of the US.

gbenaim · Aug 3, 2007

Yeah, the box says it's in date, it just looks like it's been stored outside, or maybe the paper used for the box went splotchy on its own. I sent them an email, and will test the film later. It's good to hear at least one other person has gotten a similar box and the film was OK.

Photo Engineer · Aug 3, 2007

If the expiration date is on a stick on label try removing it to see if there is another date on a label or on the box underneath the sticky label.

I am not accusing Freestyle, but I have heard of some wholesalers or even manufacturers that are re-dating film. I have no idea if this is the case here, but since B&W film is moving slowly, I have reports of filled warehouses with aging film and paper that is being redated.

Now, I hasten to add that these manufacturers do date conservatively and do store the products under optimum conditions (most of the time), and do know the 'real' expiration date, but I have heard reports...... You may want to look into this possibility.

PE

juan · Aug 3, 2007

I think the boxes look more like they're made from recycled paper - splotchy and grainy.
juan

srs5694 · Aug 3, 2007

Photo Engineer said:
If the expiration date is on a stick on label try removing it to see if there is another date on a label or on the box underneath the sticky label.

I am not accusing Freestyle, but I have heard of some wholesalers or even manufacturers that are re-dating film. I have no idea if this is the case here, but since B&W film is moving slowly, I have reports of filled warehouses with aging film and paper that is being redated.

I recall seeing a similar story somewhere about a bottle of developer. (IIRC it was a "hobbyist brand" of C-41 developer, like Paterson or Tetenal.) I've not seen this with my own eyes, though, and I didn't save the reference.

rorye · Aug 3, 2007

I had a bad batch of Rollei 25 from Freestyle last month. I called them and 2 days later received replacement film. I bet if you call them they'll fix it. Good luck!

boyooso · Aug 4, 2007

What you are describing sound like the proper box for the film, it looks bad!

Post a photo so we can all confirm or deny

Corey

PHOTOTONE · Aug 4, 2007

The film inside Arista boxes is either in black plastic bags, or sealed foil pouches. Unlikely that any surface stains would damage the contents. Do you have issues with the contents?

gbenaim · Aug 4, 2007

Haven't tested it yet, just don't like the look of the box. I emailed someone at FS and he assured me he'd credit the amount if the film's bad, so they're standing behind their product.

Dirty Film Box from Freestyle, Anyone else?

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