Instructions for scanning your own images...

 

 

Although we prefer to have you send original photographs 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.

 

In those cases you should scan your own images using the guidelines below or have them scanned by a qualified digital imaging service such as an office supply store using the specifications below.

 

Once the scans are completed, simply upload them to us on our FTP (file transfer protocol) site or send them to us on a CD or DVD, along with a completed order form.

 

The following scanning procedures will ensure high resolution scans that will produce high quality prints.

 

1. Make sure the glass bed of your scanner is clean. A non-streaking cleaner such as Windex® is recommended.

 

2. Remove as much dust as possible from the surface of the pictures. A can of compressed air, a soft-bristled brush or a clean tack cloth works well. Do not rub or scrub the photo.

 

3. Scan each photo as a single file. Do not group them together.

 

4. Save the file as a “TIF” file with no compression. TIF files are larger and will yield sharper images than JPEG files.

 

5. Scan each image at between 300 and 600 DPI (high resolution). For prints 5x7 or larger, scan at 100% enlargement. Smaller prints should be enlarged so the widest dimension of the output file is at least 7 inches. TIF files scanned this way will be between 15 and 20 megabytes or larger. Larger and some smaller files are acceptable.

 

6. Scan in RGB color mode only, even if the photo is black and white. This is important!

 

7. Set the bit depth to 24-bit or 48-bit.

 

8. Turn off all special features on your scanner such as sharpening, color correction, dust removal, etc.

 

If you have questions about scanning procedures, please contact us.