Frequently Asked Questions
What types of photos can you scan?
Any regular photographs, colour and black & white negatives (135, 110, 126) and 50mm slides (135, 110, 126). I can also scan documents such as certificates, letters, envelopes, children’s art - anything flat!
How much does it cost?
This can depend on the volume of photos as well as whether they are regular pictures, slides or negatives. Click here for a price list.
How do I prepare my photos for scanning?
They just need to be removed from albums to avoid any potential damage. Ideally in a box, bag or photo packet. I aim to keep them in order but due to the scanning process it can’t be guaranteed. For a small fee I can organise them digitally into folders with custom names - please see the Price List page for further details.
How do I get my photos to you for scanning?
I am based in Earls Colne, Essex (postcode CO6), which is close to Colchester, Braintree, Sudbury and Halstead. If you’re local, you can drop them off to me at an agreed time. Alternatively, for a small fee I can pick them up from you, especially if it’s a large batch. You can also post them to me, and I will return them via insured, signed-for delivery.
My photos or documents are fragile or delicate? Will scanning damage them?
No - it is a gentle and safe procedure! If you have anything particularly fragile, I can process it in a protective carrier sheet so there will be no contact with the scanner.
Can you enhance faded or discoloured photos?
Yes - absolutely! Old photos are very susceptible to discolouration and degradation due to sunlight or acid in the printing. I am able to enhance your photos to bring them back to life with a more balanced and striking colouration. Click here to see before and after examples! There is a small surcharge for this, but if you have any discolouration or fading, I highly recommend it. I think the examples speak for themselves. It's possible for you to receive both the original scan AND the enhanced version too.
Can you edit or retouch my photos after they are scanned?
Yes, to an extent. There are companies out there who can colourise and make damaged photos as good as new which is a lengthy and complicated procedure. Using professional editing software I can make some repairs and touch-ups - contact me to discuss your requirements.
At what resolution will my photos be scanned?
My preference is to scan in high quality at 600dpi (dots per square inch) which will allow the photo to be perfectly represented at the original size as well as being enlarged for printing. If digital storage space is a concern, I can scan at 300dpi which is fine for the original photo size but not the best if you want to enlarge it. I can also scan at 1200dpi for an additional fee due to the increased scan time and file size. These are larger, higher quality files. Slides and negatives are scanned at between 14 and 22MP (megapixels).
What file formats will my digitised photos be saved as?
Easy one - they will be JPEGs. High quality picture files viewable on any device or computer.
How will I receive my digitised photos?
The easiest way is for me to send you an online link for you to download them through a file transfer website such as ‘WeTransfer’. This method is quick and free. If you’d prefer to receive them on a USB memory stick or CD/DVD, this can be arranged for a small fee.
What payment do you accept?
I accept online bank transfer (BACS), Paypal or cash. I can send a paypal invoice which can be paid by anyone - no Paypal account required.
What size photos or documents can you scan?
Anything up to A4 is fine, and I can go up to B4 (13.9 × 9.84 inches [353 × 250 mm]). I can scan very long photos and documents too - up to 240” (6 metres!).
