For 35mm negatives it is likely that they have been protected in a plastic sleeve of some kind so it is not necessary to clean them before we receive them. However for Slides (& loose film), we highly recommend that you clean them before sending them to us. Obviously the cleaner the starting material the better the final result.

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What checks do you do before you start scanning?

Before scanning we check the condition of the films before feeding them into the equipment. In addition we check and blow off any excess dust / debris using an air blower (& soft brush only if absolutely necessary). This process will remove the majority of the larger particles and the remainder will be well within the capability of Digital ICE to eliminate from the final digital image. Then finally we test run several slides to obtain the characteristics of your collection. After which we send you a selection of Original & processed images for you to review before starting to scan the order.

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Can Digital ICE remove more serious damage?

Digital ICE is extremely powerful at mapping and restoring film defects. ICE can eliminate small dust, hair, small scratches, emulsion cracks even light fingerprints!  However it does have its limits. Severe damage cannot be restored, therefore let us know your concerns and send us a sample and we'll see what can be done.

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Is there anything that cannot be scanned?

Multimedia Convert currently covers the majority of popular formats and constantly reviews / upgrades our hardware to meet customer requirements. If the capability is not listed on the web site, please call or drop us an email, perhaps it is in the planning and with sufficient demand will be developed. The only other limitation is Copyrighted material, you must be the owner for us to scan it.

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How long will the scanning take?

This depends on 3 factors, 1) Number of pictures to be scanned; 2) the options required (some options quadruple the scanning time!) and 3) the characteristics of the collection (more variety requires more fine tuning of the scanning parameters for optimal results). If you decide to go ahead after reviewing the test images, we will provide you with a formal quotation and estimated delivery date. We aim to turnaround all orders within 1 week or receipt.

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How do I choose which scanning options?

Firstly, please review the explanations and examples of Digital ICE in the adjacent pages. Then armed with this knowledge and the history of your film media you can make a well educated guess. Digital ICE is strongly recommended and is so fundamental to the final result quality that it is included. SIE is the scanning equivalent of most photo editors "Instant Fix", producing bright vibrant images on newer films, but not necessarily to everyone's taste. However it struggles when processing older images and you would be better served by paying the extra and using the ROC option discussed next - the emailed test runs will allow you to decide. 

For older, faded films ROC will faithfully restore them to the original colours. GEM is a must for grainy films or if you plan to print enlargements. The process essentially eliminates the grain boundaries to produce lovely smooth images. Both options can be fine tuned to your preference after reviewing the test images. Finally, for pictures with a lot of shadows or underexposure problems consider applying DEE to bring the detail out of the shadows.

MultiScan, HiBit depth and Dual format files are options to choose to extract the maximum digital information out of your collection and to give you maximum flexibility for the future (editing, resizing, archiving, etc.). If in doubt call us to discuss or to arrange sending some samples to demonstrate what is possible with your film.

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Can I try before I buy?

Absolutely, please do! Send us 3~4 frames & we'll perform a test run and send you the results. At the end of the day we want you to be happy, and hopefully you will then recommend us to your family and friends. Please call 0191 6402095 / 01228 808195 or email sales@multimediaconvert.co.uk to make arrangements.

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If I decide to go ahead, what happens next?

It is highly recommended slide originals are cleaned prior to dispatch. We will then clean them again using an air blower (& soft brush only if absolutely necessary) just before scanning; Next we test run several frames to understand the characteristics & options required for your order. Samples of these Test runs will be emailed to you, and after your review, we will go ahead with the order. Some of the options are quite dramatic and down to individual taste. The best image is really in the eyes of the owner (not ours). We will bring our experience to bear in selecting the Test run images and then helping you decide which options are best. Once the order is complete, we will contact you to make payment arrangements and for return delivery.

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