How to Copy Old Photographs for Family Histories

It is important to preserve old photographs in digital format.

Part of preserving and documenting a family's history is preserving the photographs of days gone by. Preserving old photographs becomes more and more important as the years pass, due to the deteriorating effects that light and the elements present to photographic paper. Fortunately the technology available today makes the process of preserving photographs relatively easy and inexpensive. All that is required is a computer and a scanner. Alternately, get photographs scanned or copied at a professional photo copying service.

Things You'll Need

• Photo scanner

Instructions

Scan and Copy

1. A photo scanner converts photographs, slides and negatives into digital images, which are then stored on a computer or printed. Flatbed scanners work well for photographs and documents, and are available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate any size photograph. Many flatbed scanners have copy and fax capabilities. A film scanner is a good choice for scanning film, negatives or slides, as it is specially constructed to handle those types of media.

2. Ensure the scanner produces a high-quality image, or high resolution. A scanner's resolution translates into DPI, or dots per inch (also referred to as pixels). A high number of dots per inch results in a higher quality scanned image. Be aware that higher resolution scanners sometimes perform more slowly than lower resolution scanners. Higher resolution scanners also tend to cost more. Scanners are available for any project and any budget.

3. Most scanners attach to the computer with a USB cable and come with the necessary operating software. Ensure your computer uses a compatible operating system, with enough RAM for proper scanner functionality. Place the photograph or document onto the scanner according to the operating instructions (typically face-down) and press the "Scan" button or activate the scanner via the provided software. Scan the photograph as a JPEG file and save it on the computer's hard drive. Store the photographs on CDs, upload the photographs onto photo sharing websites or print hard copies of the photographs.

Professional Restoration

1. Professional photo restoration services are widely available to copy and scan your photographs, and can even repair and touch up damaged or aged photographs. Most services can provide a CD of the scanned digital photos, hard copies of the photographs or both. Many services also provide a complete album of the photographs for an extra fee.

2. Professionals have the resources available to completely restore aging photographs, remove flaws, repair scratches and repair color degradation. Restoration services are charged on a project basis, so be sure to get a quote for the specific repairs desired.

3. Mention to your photo restoration professional that you are preserving photographs for the purposes of your family history. He will likely have suggestions for organizing the photographs with associated documentation and will be able to provide binding or storage solutions.

References

• Ken Rockwell: How to Select a Photo Scanner
• Hewlett Packard: HP Scanner Buying Guide
• Digital Photos 101: Digital Photo Restoration Can Rescue Your Damaged Old Family Photos

Resources

• PC Magazine: The Best New Scanners and MFPs
• Photography Pros: Photo Restoration/Photo Repair - Retouching Services