Photo Scanning FAQs

Why Choose Didlake Photo Imaging?

Didlake Photo Imaging brings 30 years of imaging experience and expertise to your photo scanning order. Our team takes pride in our work and adheres to a strict Quality Assurance program to ensure high-quality images with every scan. Our trained technicians handle every photo with white-glove treatment.

We use state-of-the-art equipment to scan your photos at a resolution of 600 dpi and may use up to 1200 dpi in some cases. We offer a variety of delivery methods to fit your needs, including digital download (cloud access), DVD and thumb drives.

Our office is conveniently located in Manassas, Virginia, making it easy for locals who would prefer the option to drop off and pick up their photos.

Our Scanning Process

What size photos are you able to scan?

We can scan wallet-size up to 8″ x 10″ photos. If you have photos larger than 8″ x 10″ that you would like scanned, we can accommodate larger sizes, however, we will need to quote you separately for those requirements. Please contact us at 1-866-315-1742 or email us at info@didlakeimaging.com.

Can you scan my photos in a specific order?

We scan your photos in the order that we find them in the bags. Sometimes the photos shift around during shipment, so make sure the size of the baggie fits the size of the photos tightly, otherwise they may not be scanned in the order you expect.

Some of my photos are very old. How do you handle fragile photos?

During processing, we inspect each photo for fragility, rips, tears and adhesives. Our scanning process includes the use of a flatbed scanner. We will utilize the flatbed scanner for more delicate photos; however, we may determine that the photo is too fragile and may not process that image. Photos that contain adhesive will also be removed from the batch. We recommend cleaning photos with a microfiber cloth before packing them in the photo bag. All adhesives should be removed, to protect the other photos and ensure the highest quality digital image.

What format will my digital photos be in when I receive them?

All photos are scanned at 600 dpi and are JPEG files.

What is DPI?

DPI (or dots per inch) refers to the resolution of the digitized image. The higher the number, the higher the resolution and higher the quality of the digital image. Our process provides the highest quality final product, which is why we scan at 600 dpi.

Do you provide photo restoration?

We do not provide photo restoration at this time. We can, however, attempt to make some small corrections. Please contact us at 1-866-315-1742 or email us at info@didlakeimaging.com to discuss your needs. Additional fees will apply.

Do you digitize film, negatives, slides or videotapes?

We do not. Our service focuses exclusively on photo scanning and digitizing. You could say we are photo scanning experts. If you are looking to scan photos, we’re the right company for you.

Ordering and Shipping

How do I place my order?

Complete the Photo Scanning Services order form on our website.

What shipping options do you offer?

When we return your scanned photos with media of your choice, we will ship the box using UPS with the option you choose. We offer two options: UPS ground or UPS express shipping. You may send us a pre-paid shipping label that we could use instead.

I’m nervous about mailing my photos. Is it safe?

We ship using UPS shipping services, a trusted and reliable leader in the shipping industry. Each shipment includes a tracking number. We will provide you with the tracking number for each shipment, so you will know where your order and your photos are, every step of the way. While at our scanning facility, your images will be under 24×7 monitoring in a controlled-access, climate-controlled environment, and handled with our usual white-glove treatment by trained technicians. We also offer shipping protection. In the unlikely event that photos are lost during shipping, we provide a $1,000 loss guarantee to customers who choose the shipping protection option. Shipping protection covers shipping your photos to our facility and when we ship your photos back to you.

Do you offer drop-off and pick-up options?

Yes. We provide contactless drop-off and pick-up options during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at our office in Manassas, Virginia. If you would prefer to drop off and pick up your order, choose “I would like to drop off and pick up my photos.” under the “Shipping” option on the order form. Once your order is complete, we will contact you the next business day to arrange for a drop-off time. Once your order is complete, we will reach out to you to arrange a pick-up time.

Packing

How should I prepare my photos before I send them to you?

Whether you choose to ship your photos or drop them off, take a moment to clean your photos before sending them to us. Our scanners are sensitive enough to pick up even the smallest speck of dust. It’s also likely that your photos have fingerprints on them. To ensure you get the highest quality digitized photos, use a microfiber cloth to clean your hard copy photos before we scan them.

I have a lot of photos in albums. Can I just send the albums?

To ensure the highest quality digitized photos, you will need to remove your photos from the album and clean them before sending them to us.

Delivery

How quickly will you process my order?

Our standard order processing is 2-4 weeks from when we receive your order. We will email you when we receive your order. We will email you again when we begin processing your order. We will also send you an email when your order processing has been completed. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

I need my photos scanned more quickly. Do you offer rush processing?

Yes. If you need your photos digitized quickly, choose Rush Processing on the order form. Rush Processing orders are completed 5 business days from the day of receipt.

Once my photos are digitized, how do you deliver them to me?

We offer three different delivery methods: digital download, DVD, or thumb drive. Digitized photos on a DVD or thumb drive will be shipped to you along with your photos when your order is complete. On the order form, you will have the option to select your delivery method preference. You can also order multiple copies of DVDs or thumb drives. These can make a great gift for family members.

Will my photos be returned to me after they are digitized?

Absolutely. After your photos are digitized, they are repacked in the original bag(s) and box you shipped them in and returned to you.

Customer Service

I have a question. How do I contact you?

You can call us at 1-866-315-1742 or email us at info@didlakeimaging.com.

When is customer service available?

Customer service is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST. We are not open on weekends or federal holidays.