Return & Refund Policy
We want you to feel good about what you purchase from Essential. Please review the guidelines below before making a purchase. If you're unsure whether something qualifies for a return, just reach out to us—we're happy to help.
Please review our return policy before making your purchase.
Cameras, Lenses & Consignment Equipment
Cameras, lenses, and consignment equipment may be returned within 5 days of purchase or, for shipped orders, within 5 days of delivery.
Our return period is intended to give you time to inspect and reasonably test your equipment. It is not intended to provide a rental period or allow equipment to be used for a photography session, event, or commercial shoot and then returned.
If something is defective or damaged
If an item arrives damaged, defective, or isn't functioning as it should:
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Contact us as soon as possible, preferably within 5 days.
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Eligible defective items may be returned for a full refund.
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We may inspect or test the item before approving a refund.
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If the issue is confirmed to be a defect, Essential will cover the cost of return shipping.
Please get in touch with us before sending a potentially defective item back so we can help determine the best next step.
If you've changed your mind
Change-of-mind returns are accepted within 5 days and are subject to a 15% restocking fee.
To qualify for a change-of-mind return:
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The item must be in like-new, resalable condition.
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All original packaging, manuals, accessories, and included components must be returned.
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Cameras must be reset to factory settings and all memory cards removed.
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Equipment may be opened and reasonably tested, but normal use, extended use, or use for a shoot or event is not considered reasonable testing.
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Items that show use, damage, excessive wear, or missing components may be refused or may be subject to an additional deduction of up to 30% if the item can no longer be sold as new.
Returned equipment that has been used beyond reasonable inspection may be accepted only at Essential's discretion and may be subject to additional deductions based on its condition and resulting resale value.
Equipment Identification
For cameras, lenses, and other equipment with serial numbers:
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Serial numbers are recorded before the item leaves our shop.
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Returned equipment must match the item originally sold.
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Items with altered, removed, or mismatched serial numbers cannot be accepted for return.
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs for change-of-mind returns. Essential will cover return shipping when the return is due to our error or an item confirmed to be defective.
General Merchandise
Most unopened and unused merchandise may be returned within 30 days of purchase.
To qualify for a refund:
- Items must be in new, unused condition.
- Original packaging, tags, stickers, and proof of purchase must be included.
Returns may be denied if merchandise shows signs of use, damage, or missing packaging.
Non-Returnable Items
The following items are final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged:
- Film (all formats)
- Instant film
- Darkroom paper
- Photographic chemistry
- Gift cards
- Clearance or final-sale items
Due to their temperature-sensitive nature, no exceptions can be made for film, darkroom paper, or photographic chemistry.
Film Processing & Lab Services
Film processing, scanning, printing, and other lab services are non-refundable once services have been performed.
If a roll is confirmed to be blank:
- Scan charges may be refunded upon request.
- Print charges associated with the blank roll may also be refunded upon request.
Film processing charges remain non-refundable.
Exchanges
We do not offer direct exchanges. The fastest way to obtain a different item is to return the original item (subject to this policy) and place a new order.
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs for change-of-mind returns. Essential will cover return shipping when the return is due to our error or an item confirmed to be defective.
Shipping charges are non-refundable unless the return is the result of our error or a verified defective item.
Some items like seamless paper, chemicals, and lighting can not be shipped.
Return Authorization
To initiate a return, please contact us before sending any merchandise back.
Email: hello@essentialphotosupply.com
Returns sent without prior authorization may be refused.
Return Address:
Essential Photo Supply
959 East 900 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Refunds
Except for blank roll refunds, approved refunds will be issued to the original form of payment after the returned item has been received and inspected.
Any applicable restocking fees will be deducted from the refund amount.
Refunds are typically processed within 10 business days of approval. Please note that your bank or credit card provider may require additional time to post the refund to your account.
If you have questions regarding a return or refund, please contact us at hello@essentialphotosupply.com.