Scanning Services

[1access]

Can anyone recommend a photo scanning service with good prices and product? I'm looking to have multiple photos scanned to put on a DVD/CD. Is mail-in better than local services on the whole? Any other aspects to consider?

Thanks!

[epaul6]

For those who do have a ton of photos they may want to try having them converted to JPGs at a place like http://scanmyphotos.com/. They will do a 1000 photos for about $50 as long as you presort them by size (must be out of the plastic).

[Ric Cisson]

Have you checked any local photo services labs in your area for assistance. Most of these high volume scan services do a "basic" scan and "auto" correction, which may or may not be to your liking. If you have a lab near you, I would recommend that you go in and talk to them. Have in mind what your requirements are, what your expectations are and how much you are willing to pay. Volume scans are okay if you are not particular as to what you want. While in the industry, I heard from many customers who shared with us their horror stories, originals lost or damaged, corrupted files from scan, prints not scanned, etc., etc. I could go on. I would suggest, if you do give a volume service your business, take them for a "test drive" first.

Personally, while in the industry, I treated each original as though it were extremely special and part of my family. I am not so sure, from those that I have heard from, that they can say the same. But, this is just my opinion. Others will chime in and opinions will be varied. I cannot, nor will I refer you to one volume service or the other, accept as noted later. I took the position that if any of my customers had a complaint about a service or product, that I could not make further referrals without a caution. The addage, "you get what you pay for" and "buyer beware" is worth mentioning if you have high expectations and end up being disappointed. It is with all due respect to my fellow Village Forum members, that I share my customers experience. Ultimately it is your choice, and your choice is to be respected. But please "look before you leap". Do your research, not just from what your fellow village members share, but do your homework online as well, and if you can find referrals, ask questions. If your originals are precious and have emotional value to you, I encourage you to shop around and find that one service that meets your expectations. Some are stateside, some are overseas, so you really need to pay attention to what and whom you are giving your business. If you have a local lab to talk to, start there.

Now, I will add, personal experience with scanmyphotos.com, they are an outstanding member of the Independent Photo Imagers (IPI) and as a former associate member of IPI, their product is of quality and the pricing is right. So, if you do not have a local lab, start with these folks, and support an independent lab and as an exception to what I previously stated earlier, I strongly recommend their service. Give them a try.