RetroLab is a powerful in-browser image editor that allows you to apply a wide range of vintage and analog-inspired effects to your digital photos. It offers a suite of features that simulate the unique characteristics of classic film cameras and stocks, giving your images a nostalgic, retro aesthetic.

Core Features

• Camera Simulation: Choose from a dozen different camera models, from full-frame classics like the Minolta Hi-Matic F to a variety of half frame cameras such as the Olympus Pen F and the modern Pentax 17. Each camera applies its own unique vignette and grain profile.
• Film Stock Emulation: Apply the distinct color science and tonal qualities of various iconic film stocks from FUJI, KODAK, and Ilford. Options range from the vibrant and sharp Fuji Provia to the classic black-and-white Ilford HP5+ and the iconic, punchy colors of Kodachrome.
• Half Frame Framing: For cameras designated as 'half_frame', you can choose how your image is cropped from the left, center, or right side of the original photo to mimic the vertical composition of a half frame camera.
• Adjustable Grain: A dedicated slider allows you to control the intensity of the film grain effect, from a subtle texture to a gritty, high-speed film look.
• Customizable Borders: You can add a classic white border to your photos. A "Border Only Mode" is also available, which disables all other effects for a clean, framed look. The size of the border is fully adjustable.
• Instant Processing and Download: The tool allows you to instantly "Take the Shot" to see your chosen effects applied and then "Develop" the image to download it as a high-quality JPEG file.

A Comprehensive Guide to Using RetroLab

1. Upload Your Image

Your first step is to load a photo into the editor. Click the "Select an image" button to open your computer's file explorer. Navigate to and select the image file you wish to edit. Once selected, your image will appear in the preview canvas on the right.

2. Select Your Camera and Film

This is where you define the core look of your photo. The settings are designed to work together, so experimenting is encouraged.

• Choose a Camera: Use the dropdown menu to select a camera. Selecting a "half frame" camera will automatically adjust the framing options, while selecting a full-frame camera will lock the framing to the original size.
• Choose a Film: Click the "Select Film" dropdown to choose a film stock. The options are grouped by manufacturer and include a short description of their characteristics.

3. Adjust Framing and Effects

Fine-tune the composition and add analog textures.

• Framing: If you've selected a half frame camera, use the "Framing" dropdown to choose whether to use the "Half Frame Left," "Half Frame Center," or "Half Frame Right" portion of your image.
• Grain: Use the "Grain" input field to increase or decrease the amount of film grain.
• Add White Border: Check the "Add White Border" box to frame your photo and use the "Border Size" input to control its thickness.

4. Using "Border Only Mode"

If you only want to add a border without any other color or lens effects, this mode simplifies the process. Check the "Border Only Mode" checkbox. This will override and disable all other settings for camera, film, and grain, allowing you to focus only on the border size.

5. Process and Download Your Final Image

Once you are happy with your settings, you can generate and save your creation.

• Process the Image: Click the "Take the Shot" button. You will hear a shutter sound, and your selected effects will be applied to the image in the preview canvas.
• Download the Image: Click the "Develop" button. This will download the final, processed image to your computer as a .jpg file.
• Reset: If you want to start over, click the "Start Again" button. This will clear the canvas and reset all options to their default state.