Photo Digitization Services

Frequently asked questions

When can I drop off my memories? Do I need an appointment?

Our processing lab is generally open 9-5, Monday-Friday. If you call or text to make an appointment, we can arrange late evening or weekend drop-offs.

What do I get back?

You tell us your preferred format. Our standard pricing assumes includes a USB stick. We also offer digital uploads to your photo service of choice and digital downloads.

How much does it cost?

Depending on the service, our prices start at 20 cents an image. Children's artwork is $1. $20 per videotape. $25 per hard-drive. $5 per CD/DVD/Floppy. Reels are 20 cents a foot. There is a $5 service charge on orders under $25.

Do you keep a backup of my files?

We keep your photos backed-up for 90 days once you have taken delivery of your order. After that, your files are deleted to protect your privacy and free up our servers.

How can I contact you?

Our text messaging services are currently down. You can reach us by phone (609)277-3362 or email at info@princetonretro.com. All of our work starts with a phone consultation. Depending on the size of the order and your physical location, you will have the option of drop-off, mail, our in-home pickup.

I need hi-resolution scans and unprocessed scan files. Can you do that?

Yes, we can do both. Standard 35mm negatives and slides are scanned at 2400dpi. We can also provide 4800 and 7200dpi Scans. We do not go over 4800dpi on 16mm film.

What is your mailing address?

Princeton Retro Photo

330 North Harrison St.

Suite 6

Princeton NJ, 08540

How big are the files that I get back?

Our standard service for negatives returns JPEG files comparable to those shot with a contemporary mobile phone - about 4MBs. These are suitable for most digital printing services and social media. Scans of prints average from 1 to 3MB per photo.

I came by your store. It didn't appear to be open.

We do not have a retail storefront. Drop-offs are done in the waiting area of our processing lab. Come inside and ring our doorbell. A technician will be out to assist you.

Can I try before I buy?

Absolutely! That is what is great about working with a local business. When you drop off, just put $25 down and we will provide you with samples of your photos/videos at the resolution level you requested before we process the entire batch.

What services do you offer on files on hard drive transfers?

We can either search for image files and transfer only those or transfer all files on the drive. The drives must be unlocked in order for us to perform our services.

I have a bunch of CDs from a big box store with photos on them. Can you get them off?

Yes, these files are copied directly from the CD to their own folder on the USB drive we give back to you. Each CD, nomatter how many files, is done at a flat rate of $5 each.

Can you upscale the videos from my SD cards and DVDs?

Yes we can,for an additional fee. For numerous reasons, you may not get the same bang for your buck as you do with the VHS transfers. We suggest bringing this up during your consultation, or contacting us via email to discuss specifics.

I wrote notes on the backs of photos. Can you transcribe them?

We do one better. We scan the back of the photo for you and include the scan of the back in the gallery at no extra charge to you.

Can you assist us by putting together a photobook after digitizing?

Certainly. We arrange photo-books in house and give you the opportunity to proof the layout before publishing. Printing and binding are done by a trusted partner.

What sort of processing do you do on my photos?

Before scanning, we use air to remove dust from the the media and scanning equipment. We also use IR dust removal during scanning. Prints are scanned at 600 DPI and red-eye correction is done standard. We can boost contrast and saturation levels to give your photos a more modern look at additional cost.

How long does the process take?

Unless you request next day or expedited service, the process takes one to three weeks once your media is received. In cases of very large orders, we may need a little more time.

Do you use AI or filters?

No. With the exception of cropping and minor touch-ups, All of our work is done in scanner. We provide you with the best possible scan of your media. Chances are, your photo sharing platform already does that other stuff for you for free.

Photo Digitization

Transforming old memories into modern digital treasures for you.