Loose photos scanning

What size of photos can you digitise?

Our standard package accommodates photos up to 20 x 25cm, but we can digitise any size photo - just let us know before you order if you'll be sending pictures bigger than this, and we can send you a larger box size along with a quote for any additional costs.

 

In which format do I receive my photos?

Each scanned photo is supplied as an individual JPEG. A digital album, provided as a complete PDF and tablet format (EPUB), is available at an additional cost.

Tablet formats allow you to view your digital book on devices like iPads, Android devices, laptops and larger screens, such as TVs.

 

What is the difference between 300 and 600 dpi?

It depends on how you intend to view, share or print your images. In most cases, digitising images at 300 dpi is perfect for viewing on desktops, laptops, tablets, and phones and sufficient for printing at the item's original size.

However, we recommend digitising at 600 dpi if you want to enlarge individual photos for printing or framing.

 

Do I need to count my photos?

You don't need to count your photos, as we will have a total once we've scanned everything for you. Just estimate how many items you will send and order the relevant service. We charge additional photos per unit, so you don't need to worry about being too exact.

Our minimum charge is £89 for up to 100 photos; additional photos are charged at the next stated threshold. For example, if you send us 125 photos, you will be charged £89 + (25 x 49p) = £101.25. If you send us 250 photos, you will be charged £149. Any additional charges will be invoiced once we know the total number of scans.

Either way, we'll get in touch if anything seems amiss.

 

Do you keep my photos in order?

We're unable to keep your photos in order due to the way they are scanned. However you can group your photos by an event or period by putting them in a photo sleeve - give them a name (such as an event, date or other) and we'll create a new folder with that name when they are scanned.

Additionally you can easily re-order photos in your favourite photo application yourself once you receive your files. Alternatively you can physically order them in a photo album and use our photo album scanning service instead.

 

Can you retouch and restore photos?

Absolutely. We have a dedicated artwork and photo editing studio with over 15 years of experience working with fine art and photographic reproductions and a dedicated team member you can deal with directly. We would price this up separately once you've received your digital album, and have let us know which photos and what adjustments you'd like us to make. See this page for more details.

 

Are my items safe?

Yes! We've been operating for over 15 years and regularly digitise fragile work for museums and galleries, requiring staff training in conservation handling. Your items are stored in our security-monitored and humidity-regulated premises in East London. We will keep you informed by email throughout the process and let you know when we receive your originals.

Additionally, we can collect and send back your original items using a convenient Royal Mail service with end-to-end tracking, or you can book an appointment to drop them in. If you have many things to digitise, we can organise same-day couriers to pick up your items. 

 

Can I drop in my items?

Absolutely. If you'd prefer to drop in your photos to be scanned rather than have them collected by us, book an appointment to come and see us in Hackney Wick, London. Here's how to find us.

 

Is there a minimum order?

We have a minimum order of 100 photos - but you can include less photos than this in your keep-safe box. If you're scanning less than ten photos it may be cheaper for you to try our artwork scanning service which is aimed at smaller batches of artworks or photos.

 

What is your turnaround time?

Our standard turnaround time is 4 to 7 business days, from receipt of your originals. If you have an extensive preservation project and it requires more time, we'll let you know. If you need priority service, we can usually accommodate this at an extra cost.

 

Do you accept international orders?

Our service is set up to collect and ship to UK customers or drop-offs at our East London studio near Hackney Wick Overground. We're happy to accept international orders on an ad-hoc basis - please get in touch with us for a quote.