Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about scanning photos, albums, pickup, and mail-in options with Photo Scanning Studio in Hamburg, NY.

How long does scanning take?

Most projects take 5–10 days after arrival, depending on the collection. Shipping adds time for mail-in projects. Tell Dan if you have a particular deadline so he can confirm timing before you book.

Do you offer rush service?

Sometimes. Rush jobs depend on our schedule and the size of your project and usually include an extra fee. If you have a firm date (memorial, slideshow, reunion, etc.), tell us when you request a quote and we’ll let you know what’s realistic.

What types of media do you scan?

We scan:

  • Loose photo prints
  • Polaroids
  • Photos up to 8.5″ × 11″
  • 35mm slides (cardboard or plastic mounted) — $0.35 each
  • 35mm negatives (film strips only — we don’t scan 120, 110, or sheet film) — $0.35 each

Basic color correction and enhancement are included on photo scans.

Do you scan slides or negatives?

Yes! We scan 35mm slides (cardboard or plastic mounted) and 35mm negatives (film strips only) at $0.35 each, with a $50 minimum on any order.

We do not scan 120, 110, or sheet film. Exploring DIY? View the recommended film scanner (affiliate link), and check the product specifications for your exact film format.

How will I receive my digitized images?

You can choose:

  • Secure cloud delivery (free) – a private download link to share with family
  • USB drive – you may bring your own USB, or we can provide one for a flat $20 per USB

Mail-in orders always include a private download link, even if you also choose USB.

Where do you offer pickup and drop-off?

Local pickup and drop-off are available by appointment in the Hamburg/Buffalo area. Pickup and drop-off are free in the Hamburg and South Buffalo area, and $10 each way elsewhere in Western New York. Tell Dan your town and he will confirm availability before booking.

How should I prepare my photos?

A rough count or picture of your collection is enough to start. Keep existing groups together and add notes if helpful. Loose photos are fastest to scan, but do not force stuck or fragile photos apart. Ask Dan before removing old tape or pulling photos from album pages.

What about albums or sticky photos?

Albums are welcome. Removal or hand-scanning may add labor. Removable photos, stuck photos, and extra-large albums need different handling, so Dan assesses the collection and confirms the extra cost before work begins.

Do you accept fragile or damaged prints?

Yes. We can usually scan curled, fragile, or lightly damaged prints with extra care. Very delicate items may need flatbed scanning and will be priced individually if they require significant manual work.

Do you offer AI enhancement or colorization?

Automatic color, contrast, and clarity enhancement is included with photo scanning. For colorization, damaged photos, or other restoration requests, send Dan a picture for an individual assessment before booking.

Is there a minimum order?

Yes — our minimum order is $50, which can be any combination of photos, slides, and negatives.

If you only have one or two special photos that need restoration or colorization, send us a note and we’ll suggest the simplest option.

What payment methods do you accept?

We currently accept:

  • Cash
  • Major credit and debit cards
  • PayPal
  • Venmo
  • Zelle

Do you work with customers outside Buffalo and Western New York?

Yes. Many customers ship their photos to us. We’ll walk you through safe packing, let you know when your box arrives, and return everything with tracking once scanning is finished.

Do you convert VHS tapes or home movies?

No, we focus on photo scanning. On our DIY Tools & VHS Options page, we list recommended services and DIY devices so you can still digitize your tapes while we handle your photos.

Can my family share the digitized photos?

Absolutely. Your private download link can be shared with family members, and extra USB drives can be added if you’d like physical copies for multiple households.

Still have a question we didn’t cover? Contact us here—we’re happy to help you plan the best way to preserve your family’s photos.

Local pickup and drop-off by appointment

Contact Dan with your town and collection details. Pickup and drop-off are free in the Hamburg and South Buffalo area, and $10 each way elsewhere in Western New York. He will confirm availability before you book. Mail-in service is available nationwide.

Text Dan to arrange a time

Our Location

We’re located near 5309 Roberts Road, Hamburg, NY 14075. Exact directions are provided after your appointment is confirmed.