Please request an estimate before actually mailing the original photograph. There is no charge for the estimate, and you will usually receive an estimate within a couple of days.
For a cost estimate, please follow these 2 steps:
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Scan your original photograph at a resolution of at least 300 dpi (600 dpi is better) in color, or have it scanned for you. If it’s a picture taken with a digital camera, just send the image as an e-mail attachment as you would send it to share with friends or family. Note: If the digital image was shot in RAW format, the file will probably be too large for e-mailing. An alternate method of delivery will be provided.
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Send the scanned or digital photo image as an attachment (not as a picture within the text of the email) in an e-mail to Action Images. Include in your e-mail detailed instructions as to the photo retouching or photo restoration work you would like to see done or how you would like your finished picture to look.
After your photo image has been seen and evaluated, an estimate of the costs will be emailed to you. Once you receive your estimate, Action Images would like to rescan your original photos for you. We take more care than commercial office supply chains and the end result is usually a better final photo. Also, by having the original on hand, the actual texture, creases, tears, stains, etc. can be seen and compared as the work progresses. This is very helpful to the restoration process. There is no additional charge for scanning. Postage for the safe return of your original photograph, CD, and prints will be included in the estimate.
We realize some people prefer not to mail their photos, and will use what you provide us with the caveat that the end result may not be best possible. If you choose to email us scanned copies, please follow the guidelines below.
Before the photos are returned, a proof will be e-mailed to you for your approval. Modifications can be made until you are pleased with the result.
Scanning
- If you can, scan the original picture rather than a copy. The better the scanned image; the better the final result.
- Scan in RGB color mode (even if it’s a black and white picture).
- Scan at a resolution of at least 300 dpi (dots per inch). A higher resolution of at least 600 is preferred.
- Do not make any enhancements, corrections, or resizing of the scanned image via the scanning software.
- It should be saved at the time of scanning as a TIFF (preferably) or high quality JPEG format. Once you “save” the jpeg image, do not save it again. With a jpeg image, each time you “save”, quality is lost. If the image file is 10MB or larger, contact us to make alternate delivery arrangements. If you are having photos scanned for you, please let the scanner know our specifications and have the scanned image copied to a CD for transmitting from your computer to us email or postal mail.
If you choose to have us scan your photos, please mail them to:
Action Images
Attn: Deke
4415 Ottawa St.
Midland, MI 48642
When mailing, please package photos carefully between tissue paper in a very sturdy and rigid mailer, preferably using a mailing service that gives you tracking and a return receipt. Action Images cannot be responsible for any damaged or misdirected mail. Registered Mail postage for the return package of your originals and finished work will be included in the estimate.
