Frequently Asked Questions

A Quick Note On Colour Correction
If you can please supply small C-Type Prints or C-Type Contacts to judge colour against that would be helpful. If all you have is a digital image we will do our best to colour correct the image as though it were a C-Type print.

What Is A HDR Digital Negative Drum Scan?
A HDR (High Dynamic Range) drum scan provides a raw file which captures all of the data on your negative. It means that your negative only ever needs to be scanned once and provides what we call a Digital Negative. We then convert the digital negative to a positive and perform a non-destructive colour and contrast grade within our processing software. Once the desired colour correction has been achieved we then process your file. This means that the raw file can be colour corrected and balanced as many times as is required and unlimited outputs with variations can be made, just like you would with a digital camera raw file. Along with your scan we will send you the raw HDR Digital Negative file which can then be stored away to be used at another time should you need to process a different version of your image.

What Is The Turn Around Time For Scans?
We believe in quality rather than speed. During week-days once we receive your film we will endeavour to commence scanning within 48 hours. DEPENDING ON QUANTITY NORMAL TURN AROUND TIME IS 48 HOURS MONDAY TO FRIDAY. QUICK TURN AROUND AND WEEK-END SCANNING IS SUBJECT TO A 100% RUSH CHARGE.

How Do I Order?
Choose and clearly mark the negatives that you need to have scanned then pay on our website for your preferred service. You will then receive an email confirmation with an order number. Please print out your order and include it with your well packaged negatives. See delivery info below.

**If I Am Using Roll Film Can I Send You Strips Of Film?**
We are happy to scan an uncut strip if you are happy to wait a little longer for it. Our prices are based on us being able to fill the drum with only frames that are to be scanned. If at all possible we would prefer you send us individual frames snipped from the strip. That way we do not occupy the drums with frames that we are not scanning, but do not worry if you cannot as we will still scan it.

What Size Should I Scan To?
The best person to speak to in terms of sizes and resolution is your printer who will be able to advise you on what they need for their output.
Here is a rough idea of what size you might want to scan to. The following guide shows file sizes after they have been been reduced to 8bit. Keep in mind your files will be supplied in 16bit so you can downsize to 8bit should you wish. The following sizes are approximations and will vary depending on the negative format.

Up - 80mb = Suitable for print sizes up to approx 18” on longest side.
81mb - 150mb = Suitable for print sizes up to approx 24” on longest side.
151mb - 250mb = Suitable for print sizes up to approx 31” on longest side.
251mb - 400mb = Suitable for print sizes up to approx 40” on longest side.
401mb - 500mb = Suitable for print sizes up to approx 50” on longest side.
501mb - 800mb = Suitable for print sizes up to approx 62” on longest side.

Please call for for print sizes of larger than 62”.

Should I Provide A Reference Print Or Contact Sheet?
Yes please, if possible. There are so many variables when it comes to scanning colour negatives such as film type, exposure and personal preference. Providing us with a print or contact sheet gives us a good starting point and will allow us to be more accurate with the colour balance of your negative. Without a print reference we will use our own judgement to colour balance your image.

What type of file will I receive?
We scan your negatives at 300dpi 16bit Tiff Adobe 1998 files.

Do You Only Scan At 300DPI?
We can scan at other resolutions. Different printers may require a different DPI or resolution. Please speak with your printer and contact us to let us know if you need DPI’s other than 300DPI.

Do My Negatives or Transparencies Need To Be Encased In Fluid?
Yes. Submerging the film in fluid is part of the drum scanning process and one of the reasons that drum scanning is superior to other forms of scanning. At Drumscan.London we use a fluid that evaporates from your negative and leaves it clean within a few moments after scanning.

What Sort Of Scanner Do We Use?
We use Heidelberg Tango and Heidelberg Primescan drum scanners which are some of the best scanners in the world.

Do You Scan Archives?
Yes. If you have large quantities of negatives, transparencies or prints we would be happy to scan them for you. Please give us a call to discuss your requirements.

How Should I Deliver My Film To Drumscan.London
Once you have made payment please drop us an email to let us know when you are sending your film so we know when to expect it. Then please register, track and send your package with a reputable courier service. !Do not use the likes of MyHermes!. Drumscan.london will not accept responsibility for Negatives or Prints that have been lost or damaged in transit.

Can I Drop Off Or Collect My Film Or Prints
Yes, For sure! Just drop us a line or give us a call to make sure that someone is in the studio. Be sure to tick the collection box in checkout so that you are not charged for delivery.

How Will My Film Be Returned?
We will return your film or prints registered using a reputable courier service with a tracking number. Drumscan.london will not accept responsibility for any packages lost or damaged in transit.

How Will I Receive My Scans?
We will provide you a link from which you can download your images using the email address you provided while ordering.