We often get questions about how to properly package photo material for shipment so that important information contained in that material is not lost during the digitization process. Here we provide you with the tips you need to know to make sure your photos are safe.

Often the easiest solution is to simply pack all the pictures/albums/envelopes into one or several plastic bags (to protect the material from moisture), put this into a sturdy carton box and ship to us. Sorting beforehand can also consume a lot of time so our philosophy is to give you the scanning service at a price that does not force you to have to look at each picture beforehand. After digitization, sorting and arranging images on the computer is much more convenient.

For customers who want to pack their stuff and label the best way possible, we have additional information:

General Information

Photos are characterized by their media types in the folders:

Pack in Separate Envelopes

We create a separate folder for each envelope/album of photos. Our premise is that each envelope contains photos of a particular event. So, if you want to have pictures of a particular event in one folder, place all those hard copies (printed photos or negatives or slides) in the same envelope/album. Go through the below pictorial representation.

Label the EnvelopesFor example, a customer packed all the photos of the wedding of his parents in a separate polythene bag and sent it to us. All photos which he has packed separately are digitized into a separate folder with the appropriate label.

Many envelopes/albums we receive contain descriptions of events written on the front of the envelope. So, if a customer opts for it we scan the envelope cover and place it as “folder description” along with images from that envelope. If you provide the event description on the envelope cover it will help you to later conveniently relate the photos with the correct events or person. If you like to have your folder descriptions scanned, please tick the corresponding checkbox on the order form. For the folders scans, we charge the standard scan fee.
If you provide us with the description of the event on the envelope, it will help you, later on, to see what person or event relates to the folder. Currently, ScanCorner does not charge extra for this service!

We number the folders as [Media Type][X] where X is the occurrence. For example, if there are three envelopes containing negatives, they are named as N1, N2, N3. If you want the envelopes to be scanned in a certain sequence please number them (write on the envelope cover). e.g. negative sleeve no. 1, negative sleeve no. 2, etc.Group the Envelopes

Unique Numbering of Images

All your images will have unique file names within your order, e.g. IMG1001.jpg, IMG1002.jpg, etc. This means two images of different folders (even of different media types) will always have different file names. This will make things easier for you in case you later want to copy images into the same folder.

No Need to Count the Total Photos

You may, but are not required to count all of the pictures! If you have counted your pictures you can simply write the total on the order. Before we begin scanning, we accurately count the material and send you an email with a provisional bill based on the exact frame number.

Shipment

Wrap slides, negatives and printed photos in a plastic bag in order to protect them from moisture during shipment. Pack the entire order in a sturdy box (no letter). Pad the photographic material with crumbled newspaper or packaging material to prevent it from sliding around.
Please click on the links presented on the top right-hand side under the heading “More Packaging Tips” to get more detailed information on the packaging of various formats.
We hope this gives you some idea about how to package your material. If you have any questions regarding packaging you can always send us an email at info@scancorner.in