Relics Repairs
Camera Repair Service
Welcome to Relics Repairs. Being a film photographer, you know that we are working with equipment that is several decades old. We understand how important it is to keep these cameras alive, and we take repairs seriously.
Our repair team consists of highly skilled technicians with over 25 years of experience. We can handle mechanical cameras and most electronic film cameras.
If your camera doesn’t need servicing, but just a good cleaning we got you covered there too!
How It Works?
We don’t provide estimates on repairs before we disassemble the camera to learn the source of the issue. Some issues are easy to diagnose from the outside, but some require a fair amount of diagnostic time.
We charge a non-refundable diagnostic fee for all repairs at the time of drop-off or before shipping your camera to us.
Please note it typically takes 4-6 weeks for cameras to be diagnosed as we work in a queue, and each camera is individually inspected by our experienced technicians to be diagnosed accurately and to provide you with a price estimate of what service your camera needs to be in good working order.
Once the camera diagnostic has been completed, our team will reach out to you with a summary of what repairs are required to get your camera back up and running, along with any associated fees. If you choose to proceed with the repair work, the amount paid for the diagnostic fee will be credited toward the repair cost.
After you complete the checkout process you will receive a confirmation email (please keep it for your records).
What cameras do we repair?
We work exclusively on analog film cameras (except for Polaroid Instant cameras, Point & Shoots, and other electronic cameras). In our experience the older the camera the more complex the repair might be, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fixed. The positive thing about working on analog cameras is most of the components are mechanical which allows us to restore them.
The most popular cameras are easy to source parts because they were widely available, but if you have a rare camera it’s a little more difficult, but not necessarily impossible. And one thing to keep in mind is that most issues with your camera can be fixed with a CLA or replacing the damaged parts.
When it comes to lenses we see the same issues over and over such as scratches, fungus, humidity, and dust. Some issues are easier to fix than others, but the repairs are mostly routine.
Unfortunately, we don’t repair electronic film cameras (i.e. Point and Shoot cameras, Polaroids, etc.) because the repairs can be a little more complicated because these cameras all rely on electronics, and most of the time it’s challenging to find replacement parts.
Light Seal Replacements
Are you getting light leaks on your images? Does the foam inside your camera body look worn? We do offer Light Seal Replacements for SLRs and Medium Format Cameras. We install new foam seals, to stop light leaks or fix the current deteriorated light seals. Turnaround time for light seal work is generally within 4 weeks.
CLAs
CLA stands for Cleaning, Lubricating, Adjusting, and most of the issues we run into can be fixed with one. We can’t recommend them enough, and if you feel something weird with your camera it’s a good idea to get it checked out before it gets worse, especially if you use the camera for professional work. Please note a Camera Diagnostic is required before performing a CLA, to ensure the correct adjustments are made during this repair.
Shipping
We recommend you pack your camera with care before sending it to us to make sure it arrives undamaged. Also, if you can please include tracking and insurance just in case.
After the camera has been repaired we will ship it back to you. The shipping rate will depend on the size and weight, but we’ll make sure it arrives back to you safely.
We send your camera back to you with a tracking number. If you want to include insurance please let us know, and we’ll include it in your invoice.
Before Sending Camera
Add the Camera Diagnostic product to your cart
Complete the Camera Repair Order Form
Include as much information as possible
Send your camera to Relics Flagship Store:
Relics Repairs
1105 E 3rd St
Long Beach, CA 90802
After Camera Arrives
We will confirm the receipt of your package
Next, we’ll contact you regarding your estimation of repair
If you accept we will proceed with the repair
If you decline you can pick up your camera in-store, or we will ship it back to you (shipping costs are not included with the diagnostic fee and will be charged separately)
Warranty
Every camera we repair has a warranty of 90 days after leaving our shop. Workmanship and materials are warranted for 90-days to be free from defects under normal use. Relics Repairs' obligation is limited to rework for the same defect only. The equipment must be accompanied with a receipt and detailed description. This warranty is void on any items or parts which have been tampered with, misused, neglected or damaged. Relics Repairs is not responsible for any film or other accessories left inside or with the equipment.