the standards
The Mechanics of Preservation.
Entrusting your physical history to a digital workflow requires transparency. Below are the details on how I handle, digitize, and restore your analog media, and what it means to partner on your archive.
FAQ
Do you take on single-roll scanning or small consumer projects?
Because of the meticulous, manual nature of my workflow and the deep level of partnership required, I specialize in large-scale archives, brand heritage collections, and comprehensive exhibition preparations. I do not operate as a high-volume consumer drop-off lab. However, if you have a highly specialized or badly damaged individual piece of significant historical or personal value that requires expert restoration, please reach out via the inquiry form.
How do I safely deliver my physical archive to you?
The safety and stewardship of your media is my highest priority. Depending on the size and fragility of the collection, we will establish a secure chain of custody during our Phase 1 consultation. For national clients, I provide strict guidelines for insured, climate-aware, and tracked shipping. For local or highly sensitive institutional archives, specialized courier options or secure, in-person handoffs can be arranged.
FAQ
Do you retain a backup of my digital master files?
Yes. I deeply understand the irreplaceable nature of your media. Upon final delivery, I maintain a secure, redundant, offline backup of your master TIFF files for an agreed-upon period (typically 12 months). This ensures you have a reliable safety net while you safely integrate the new digital assets into your own permanent storage infrastructure or institutional database.
Can you work with media that is actively deteriorating, moldy, or water-damaged?
Yes, but these materials require specialized triage. Media suffering from severe dye fading, mold, emulsion flaking, or water damage must be carefully assessed to prevent further loss and to protect the archival equipment. If your collection contains compromised materials, please detail this in your initial inquiry so we can discuss the safest, non-destructive approach to recovery.
FAQ
Do you use automated software to remove dust and scratches?
No. Automated dust removal algorithms (like Digital ICE) often misinterpret the fine details of a photograph—such as architectural lines, foliage, or organic film grain—as damage, resulting in a soft or artifact-heavy image. I perform all dust, scratch, and damage repair manually at a 100% crop, ensuring the authentic character and sharpness of your original media is perfectly preserved.
How long does a typical archival project take?
Because I do not automate my workflow, turnaround times depend heavily on the volume and physical condition of your collection. A small, well-preserved portfolio may take a few weeks, while a comprehensive brand heritage archive requiring extensive manual emulsion repair can take several months. A clear, projected timeline will always be established and agreed upon during the proposal phase before any work begins.
FAQ
Do you take on single-roll scanning or small consumer projects?
Because of the meticulous, manual nature of my workflow and the deep level of partnership required, I specialize in large-scale archives, brand heritage collections, and comprehensive exhibition preparations. I do not operate as a high-volume consumer drop-off lab. However, if you have a highly specialized or badly damaged individual piece of significant historical or personal value that requires expert restoration, please reach out via the inquiry form.
How do I safely deliver my physical archive to you?
The safety and stewardship of your media is my highest priority. Depending on the size and fragility of the collection, we will establish a secure chain of custody during our Phase 1 consultation. For national clients, I provide strict guidelines for insured, climate-aware, and tracked shipping. For local or highly sensitive institutional archives, specialized courier options or secure, in-person handoffs can be arranged.