How to Submit the Best Image for Restoration

Welcome! To ensure you receive the highest-quality restorations from Photobalm, please follow these guidelines for digitizing your photographs:

Using a Flatbed Scanner

• Remove photos from frames to avoid glare and distortion.
• Clean scanner glass thoroughly to eliminate dust and fingerprints.
• Set scanner resolution to between 300 and 600 dpi.
• Scan one photo at a time and save files in JPG, PNG, or TIFF formats.

Using a Smartphone or Tablet

• Many modern smartphones (e.g., Samsung Galaxy, iPhones) have built-in scanning features. Ensure you select "scan" mode rather than just taking a photo.
• Alternatively, use dedicated scanning apps like Adobe Scan, Microsoft Lens, or similar for clearer results.
• Place photos on a flat surface with natural, even lighting (no direct sunlight or harsh shadows).
• Hold your device directly above and parallel to the photograph to avoid distortion.
• Capture one image per scan and save as high-quality JPG or PNG.

Important Tips for Best Results

• Provide clear images without glare, reflections, or compression.
• Ideal sizes range from approximately 5x7 to 8x10 inches, although any size is workable.
• Include clearer, reference images if the original is difficult to discern.
• Avoid scanning printed copies of original photos—always provide the best version of the image.
• Do not send images already enhanced or colorized by apps; provide original, unaltered versions.

Colorization Request Form

Please include the following details (you may leave fields blank or select "unknown" if unsure):

• Eye Color:
• Hair Color:
• Skin Tone:
• Clothing Colors:
• Background Elements (buildings, cars, etc.):
• Season or Time of Year (for outdoor images):

Attach clearer reference images if available.

Safely Cleaning Your Photographs

Caution: Cleaning photographs can risk damage if not done carefully.

• Use a soft, clean brush or microfiber cloth to gently remove dust.
• Avoid alcohol wipes or chemical cleaning agents entirely, as they can cause permanent damage.
• For stubborn residue, lightly dampen a cloth with distilled water (never apply water directly) and gently dab—never rub.
• Allow photos to air dry completely before scanning.

Scanning Negatives

• High-quality negative scanners, such as Epson Perfection V600, Canon CanoScan 9000F, or similar models, are recommended.
• Set scanning resolution to at least 1200 dpi for negatives.
• Handle negatives carefully by the edges to avoid fingerprints or damage.
• Save negative scans in high-quality formats like TIFF or PNG.

Digitizing VHS or Reel-to-Reel Screenshots

• Screenshots from digitized VHS or reel-to-reel films can be enhanced, but image quality is limited by the original source.
• Provide original, unaltered screenshots; do not apply digital enhancements yourself.
• Extremely blurry or highly pixelated images have significant limitations.

Image Quality Disclaimer

Some extremely blurry or severely damaged photos may have limitations. However, Photobalm can often reconstruct or enhance missing or damaged parts of backgrounds, clothing, or other logically present elements. If you're unsure, please reach out for an evaluation.

Declaration of Ethics

• We will not add anachronistic elements (modern clothing, logos, etc.).
• Original tones of clothing and surroundings will be respected.
• All color choices will be historically appropriate and respectful of the original context.
• Minor background elements or logically present parts (leaves, grass, buildings, clothing details) may be restored or recreated as accurately as possible.

Preserve Your Originals

Never discard original photos after digital scanning. Technology continues to advance, and future improvements might further enhance restorations. Keeping originals ensures they're available for future generations.

Assistance for Scanning

If you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with scanning technology, consider visiting:

• Local drugstores or pharmacies (e.g., Walgreens, CVS) offering photo scanning services.
• Professional companies specializing in bulk photo scanning.