Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I scan my own pictures?

Although we prefer to have you send original photographs or documents to us because our scanning techniques produce the best possible images, we realize there may be times when you prefer to scan your own images. Very good results can be achieved when you follow the protocol outlined in our Scanning Instructions section.

 

Your scans can then be placed on a CD, DVD or Thumb Drive and mailed to us or uploaded to us on our Upload Images FTP site. Don’t forget to include a completed Order Form or Photo Restoration and Enhancement Quote Request Form.

 

I don't want to send my one-of-a-kind photos by mail, but I don't have a scanner. Is there another option?

Yes. You should be able to obtain high quality scans from a local copy or office supply store in your area. Simply print out our Scanning Instructions page and have them scan according to our scanning protocols. They can save it to a CD, DVD or Thumb Drive. Most files when scanned properly are too large to send via e-mail.

 

I have specific instructions for you on each photograph. What’s the best way to explain what I want you to do?

We do not recommend writing on either the front or the back of your pictures. We’ve found the best way to provide instructions is to make a photocopy of each image and write your instructions on the copy. Sticky notes attached to the back of the photo can also be used.

 

If you plan to include scanned image files or digital photos, you can simply identify each image by its file name and provide written instructions about your wishes with your order or quote request.

 

My original picture is pretty small. How large can it be printed and still look good?

Small images, even those needing extensive restoration, can be enlarged dramatically when they are scanned and restored properly. Wallet-sized pictures or even small sections of larger images that are sharp and clear can produce good quality enlargements, sometimes up to 16”x20” or even larger. If you would like an image enlarged, we’ll be happy to advise you regarding the maximum size that will yield good results.

 

How long will it take to complete my order?

Standard completion time for most orders is 10 business days, however, we often complete projects in just a few days. The order form allows you to specify a date when you need the completed order delivered to you. When we receive your order, we’ll provide you with a final price quote and verify a delivery date based on your needs and our current work flow.

 

If you need a project completed very quickly, we recommend that you call us to discuss your deadline. Although we seldom charge for “rush” services, it may be necessary to add a “rush” surcharge if we need to stop work on already scheduled projects.

 

Will I get a chance to review and approve a proof before final prints are made?
Before your project is completed and printed, you will be e-mailed a low resolution proof or mailed a paper proof for your final review and approval. We will then make any changes or adjustments in the final images before the final prints are delivered to you.

 

Can I get more prints later or make changes or additions at a later date?

All project files are digitally stored on our primary computers and backed up in several locations to ensure that you will always be able to get additional prints or make changes at any time in the future.

 

I have hundreds of old family prints and slides that I would like to have scanned. That could be very expensive. Do you offer volume discounts for a project like this?

Our scanning price list is designed for small quantity orders requiring high quality scans. Large quantity, high quality scan orders are competitively priced at Milestone Images. Discounts are available on large quantity print orders, too. Please call us to get a quote.

 

Can you add text to my pictures?

Too often important family and historical photos are "lost" because nobody knows who the people are or where and when the picture was taken. We encourage you to add text to your photos, especially old photos, so there will be no doubt about who or what the picture is fifty years from now. It's simple and inexpensive, and is added in a subtle, yet readable way that does not detract from the image.

 

We can add text to identify people, the occasion, date or other important information. We can even add poems or other text that you provide.

 

What size prints should I order? What if I want different sizes of the same image?

Many factors, including the frames you have available, where you want to display the picture and the quality of the original will determine what size your final prints should be. The final prints can be printed to whatever size you desire based on the height and width proportions of the original. If you'd like more than one print, prints can be made in varying sizes. After the largest print is made, all other prints will be billed at the lower "additional prints" price listed on our print price schedule.

 

If your picture won't yield a good quality image at the size you order, well discuss it with you to give you an opportunity to revise your order. We'll be happy to recommend the best size based on the quality of your original.

 

How do I pay? Is it safe to use my credit card on your site?
Our standard payment arrangements require a fifty percent payment at the time you accept our quote, with the remainder due at project completion. We will provide complete payment instructions once you accept the price quote.


Security is very important to us. To ensure safe, private transactions, we utilize PayPal, a safe and convenient way to conduct business online. We selected this vendor based on its excellent record. To further safeguard you, we do not keep your credit card information on file.

 

How long do your prints last?

All prints are printed on archival papers using specially formulated Epson Wide Format printers and inks. With proper care and display, archival testing labs have estimated that you can expect up to a 200-year life span, depending on the specific paper stock used.

 

Can you use files from my digital camera?

Yes. For best results, set the camera for the highest resolution and save the images as "jpg" or "tif" files. If your camera saves files as "Camera Raw" files, use that setting. The files are larger, but yield the best possible images. Please send your digital image files exactly as they come from the camera. Do not crop, resize, or color correct them. We'll adjust and crop your images based on your instructions.