The Arca Film Lab, operated by a young couple, is breathing life into the analogue photography scene in Central America, serving over 60 clients a month while navigating unique challenges.
Young Couple Revives Nostalgia with Central America's Only Photo Lab
Young Couple Revives Nostalgia with Central America's Only Photo Lab
Fabriccio Díaz and Lucía Ramírez transform their passion for analogue photography into a thriving business in Guatemala City.
Nestled in an apartment in Guatemala City, Fabriccio Díaz, 28, and his wife Lucía Ramírez, 25, have launched the only fully operational photo film development lab in Central America, known as Arca Film Lab. “It all started as a small passion project,” Fabriccio reflects, and it has dramatically exceeded their expectations, processing over 800 rolls of film this year alone.
The couple's lab, which caters to a growing clientele, is renowned for developing all types of analogue photography film, including the intricate E-6 process for positive film. Fabriccio, a cinematography graduate, was motivated by the limited access to quality film development in the region. Initially, their experimentation with film in their home drew interest from friends, and soon, their venture evolved into a full-blown business through an Instagram page launched in September 2023.
Self-taught in their film development skills, Fabriccio and Lucía reached out to veteran photographers and received a wealth of advice, which they diligently applied. “We were surprised that so many people responded to our questions," Fabriccio says, grateful for the support from the international photographic community.
Their love for photography extends beyond development; the couple organizes “photo walks” in the picturesque colonial town of Antigua, inviting enthusiasts to explore with their analogue cameras. Young photographers like Iván Ortiz, 22, find profound joy in using vintage cameras that connect them to a nostalgic era. "Through analogue photography, I have to make conscious decisions about my photos," he emphasizes, contrasting his experiences with the fast-paced digital world.
Despite the growing interest in analogue photography, challenges remain. Ronald Ottoniel, 26, who recently participated in a photo walk, notes the difficulty of obtaining functioning cameras and film supplies. Fabriccio and Lucía face hurdles in sourcing chemicals necessary for the film development process, due to strict import regulations, creating a complex task that many other labs avoid.
However, the couple remains dedicated to maintaining a personalized service. They appreciate the small gestures from clients, like receiving sweets in their development packages, and aim to foster individual connections rather than treating customers as mere numbers. Their operating method is notably hands-on, as they focus on precise timings and temperatures crucial for processing films, ensuring that each roll receives the utmost care.
As they adapt to the demands of their flourishing business, they have expanded their services to El Salvador and express aspirations to partner with prestigious film companies. Fabriccio dreams of revitalizing the cinematography scene in Central America, believing they possess untold talent and enthusiasm to offer. Sharing his vision, he states, “With Arca Film Lab, we have started a movement that we want to push further and further.” Accompanying them is Toto, their four-month-old cat, who does his part as the quality control supervisor within their bustling film lab.
Through their commitment and passion, Fabriccio and Lucía are not only capturing images but also preserving a cherished way of experiencing photography in a digital world.
