Young Couple Revives Old-school Photo Lab with Nostalgia and Passion
Nostalgia and Passion: Arca Film Lab
The young couple, Fabriccio Díaz, 28, and Lucía Ramírez, 25, fuel their passion by running the only operational photo film development lab in Central America.
Passion Project Turned Business
Arca Film Lab, located in Guatemala City, has gained over 60 clients a month and developed more than 800 rolls of film this year alone. Fabriccio, a cinematography student, saw the lack of quality film services in the region as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Learning and Growing
Through self-teaching via YouTube and reaching out to global film labs, Fabriccio and Lucía mastered the art of film development. Their love for photography extends beyond their lab, as they organize photo walks in Antigua, embracing the charm of old cameras.
Analog Enthusiasts: Embracing the Past
For young enthusiasts like Iván Ortiz, 22, analog photography offers a unique experience that digital can't match. Making deliberate choices and cherishing physical prints are aspects that modern photography lacks.
Capturing Culture Through Film
Steven López, 33, travels through Central America with a 35mm camera to document the rich Mayan culture. The joy of receiving developed film is akin to Christmas for him, emphasizing the value of tangible memories.
Challenges and Ambitions
Despite the growing community of analog lovers, hurdles like limited camera availability and importing chemicals persist. Fabriccio and Lucía strive to maintain a personal touch in their business, ensuring every client feels special.
Future Aspirations: Reviving Cinematography
The couple dreams of collaborating with industry giants like CineStill and Eastman Kodak to expand into cine film development. Their ambition to revitalize cinematography in Central America drives their dedication to Arca Film Lab.
