Frequent questions
HELPING YOU WITH
Ordering
How does your photo scanning service work?
It's simple! Once you place an order, we'll send you a box with pre-paid shipping. You pack your photos securely, use the included return label, and send it back to us. We'll then digitize your photos and provide you with digital access to relive your memories.
How long will it take to complete my scanning order?
Most photo scanning orders are digitised within 2-3 weeks from when we receive your photos to our headquarters. Though we usually complete it much faster than that. That's just a safe buffer.
What types or sizes of photos can I send for scanning?
We can digitize printed photographs — they're usually 6x4 or 8x6 (our maximum is A4) and we scan Polaroids too!
Read more about what we don't scan here.
How do I prepare my photos for scanning?
We have guides for that! You can read things like How to pack your photos and How to remove glue from photos read them here →
Can I order additional copies of my digitised photos for family and friends?
Absolutely! We understand the desire to share cherished memories. You can order multiple USB Drives to share with them, or you can share the link to your online gallery for them to view anywhere.
Can I include other memorabilia or documents in the box for scanning?
While our primary focus is photo scanning, we understand the sentimental value of other items like postcards, newspaper clippings etc. Feel free to contact us to discuss the inclusion of additional memorabilia.
Could I just do the scanning myself?
I mean you could, but…
The average family has 1,500 old analog images. Scanning those, once you've learned how and bought the equipment, should take about 5 minutes per photo — including cropping, adjusting exposure and any repair work. For 1,500 photos, that's 7,500 minutes, or about 125 hours. That's over 3 work-weeks or 16 Saturdays at 8 hours a day.
You choose that path and we can help advise you on any of it — or you could choose us using well oiled machinery 🙂
Where are my photos scanned?
All photo scan orders are processed at our Stranorlar, Donegal 🇮🇪 headquarters. It’s a clean and secure environment.
Do you accept orders from outside Ireland?
We are delighted to serve customers in Ireland primarily, therefore you can only currently checkout to Ireland on our checkout.
However, we can arrange custom international orders. Please note that shipping times and costs may vary for international orders. Feel free to contact us for specific details.
FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND
Safety & Security
Is my photo collection safe during shipping?
Absolutely! We provide a specially designed, sturdy box to ensure the safe transportation of your precious photos.
There is some inherent risk of shipping your photos, which you should be comfortable with. That said, as of today (July 2023), we confirm that no orders have ever been lost or damaged.
How do I know my photos won't be shared or used without permission?
Your privacy is of utmost importance to us. We never share or use your photos for any purposes other than providing you with our scanning service. Your memories remain secure and confidential.
What measures do you have in place to prevent loss of my photos during the scanning process?
Your photos are handled with precision and assigned unique identifiers to ensure no mix-ups occur. Additionally, our secure storage system helps safeguard against any potential loss.
FOR THE TECHNICALLY MINDED
Quality & Technical
How long does the photo scanning process take?
The turnaround time depends on the size of your collection. Once we receive your photos, our efficient team works diligently to complete the scanning process. You'll receive your digital copies, usually, within 2-3 weeks from the date we receive your photos.
What resolution and file format will my digital photos be in?
Your photos will be provided in a standard digital format — .jpg, making it easy for you to view and share them.
We scan at 600 DPI. The final file size will vary depending upon the size of the original photograph.
A standard 4x6" photo at 600 DPI ranges from 1.5 - 2.5 MB.
Can I also make big museum-quality poster enlargements from the files?
These photo scans are designed to digitally preserve your regular photos. This is not designed to be museum-quality clarity. But it’s excellent for social media, and viewing any time on your phone, tablet or laptop. But you can re-print our scans safely up to 2x their original size.
Can I see sample scans?
Yes! We wrote this post that even compares the quality to a regular iPhone photo, of your classic photos — read it here.
Are my digital photos backed up for safekeeping?
Yes, we understand the significance of preserving your memories. We back up your digitised photos in secure storage, for 30 days after we send you the viewing link.
You should download from there and keep the digital files safe in multiple backups, like a USB drive or a service like Google Photos or iCloud Photos.
WE TREAT THEM AS IF THEY'RE OURS
Handling & Care
Can I get my original photos back after scanning?
Yes, absolutely! Your original photos hold sentimental value, and we understand their importance. After digitization, we will carefully pack and return all your original photos along with the new digital copies.
What if my photos are damaged or stuck in albums?
Good question. We only scan loose images, that are not in albums. If you have a few that are stuck in albums that cannot be removed we may not be able to scan it.
If you have examples like this please reach out to our Support Team with a quick photo and we can assess it.
How will I access my digitised photos?
We provide secure online access to your digitised photos through a private gallery. You'll receive login credentials to view, download, and share your precious memories with ease.
What happens if the box is damaged during shipping?
We use sturdy boxes and our courier is UPS who've handled our boxes with care, so this shouldn't happen.
Should the box arrive damaged, please reach out to our customer support immediately. We'll ensure a replacement box is sent to you promptly.
Additional Services
Do you offer any additional services, like photo restoration?
Yes! In addition to scanning, we offer photo restoration services to breathe new life into old, damaged photos. This is a custom job and priced individually. You currently cannot order this via our website, please reach out to our Support Team to arrange it.
Can I request a rush service for my urgent scanning needs?
Absolutely! If you require expedited scanning, we offer rush service options for quicker turnaround times. Contact us for details and availability.
ALWAYS HERE FOR YOU
Customer Support
How can I track the progress of my photo scanning order?
We'll keep you informed by emailing you at each stage of the scanning process, like just recieved your box; we've started scanning; scanning is complete now, etc.
If you need an update outside of these anytime, please feel free to reach out to us on live chat or email team@photoscans.ie
Can I pay over months instead of a single payment?
Yes! We have Klarna available at checkout. With Klarna Pay Later you can shop now and split your payment into three easy, interest-free payments over the next three months.
With Klarna, there are no hidden fees or interest charges, making it a convenient and transparent way to get what you want when you want it. There are terms and conditions set by Klarna.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept various payment methods, including credit/debit cards and secure online payment platforms. This includes Klarna, which enables you to split your payment into 3 payments, over 3 months.
Rest assured, your payment information is protected with the highest level of security.
How can I reach customer support if I have additional questions or concerns?
Our friendly customer support team is available via email team@photoscans.ie, phone 0874344185, or live chat to assist you promptly with any queries or concerns you may have.
MAKING IT SEAMLESS
Helpful Tips
Is there a limit to the number of photos I can send for scanning?
There's no need to worry about limits. We offer flexible packages to cater to various photo collection sizes, whether you have a few cherished moments or an extensive archive.
We accept orders from companies, community groups or government organisations with large order scanning needs.
Contact us beforehand to ensure we can ship your appropriately sized box (or boxes!).
What photo orientation should I follow when packing them in the box?
While there's no strict orientation required, we recommend placing the photos facing the same direction to ensure the best scanning results.
However, during our Quality Control checks, we rotate digital images the correct way up.
Any other tips?
Yes! We've made some guides on packing, organising, cleaning your photos, and more!