Question:
Is it really possible
to see an improvement in the quality of my movies after the film transfer
to DVD?
Answer:
Absolutely! And there
are a few reasons for that. First, depending on the manner in which
your film was transferred, the annoying flicker that is present when
you watch the movie on a projector should be eliminated if the right
equipment is used
Some film transfer companies
use broadcast quality cameras and equipment that enable the technician
to shoot right off the emulsion of the film and zoom in with a magnified
view of the surface of the film for maximum image quality. Regular
film projectors often crop as much as 20% of the frame of the film.
Further improvements can be made by specialized digital image enhancement
technology that can be either software or hardware based, allowing
significant improvements for film shot in low light, overly lit conditions
as well as enhancing faded color.
Question:
How do I decide which
company to use to transfer my movies?
Answer:
Well I hope by reading
this guide you are now much better informed about the film conversion
process. Now you will be able to ask the right questions that will
help you decide which film transfer companies are competent, reliable
and use the proper up to date equipment, and those that will give
you the results that you are looking for. Look for organizations that
at the minimum provide the following:
1) List pricing information
on their website.
2) Offer to do a FREE
SAMPLE transfer of your film enabling you to judge for yourself the
quality of their work.
3) Offer realistic time
estimates for the completion of your work.
4) Conduct an open discussion
with you regarding the equipment and process used to transfer your
film.
5) Are easy to reach and
return your communications promptly.
6) Offer a complete list
of features that are included with your film transfer.
Question:
What is the charge if
my movie film is no longer good?
Answer:
In rare cases, sometimes
as a result of storage conditions or poor quality film stock I have
received a families home movies that have gone beyond the point of
being salvageable. Should this be the case with your film there is
no charge and the film is promptly returned to you.
Question:
My biggest concern about
having my home movies transferred is the fear of losing them during
the shipping process. We started filming our family history in 1947
and stopped in 1971 and have 24 years worth of memories. I need to
be sure that my film will not be lost in transit. What is the safest
method or carrier to use?
Answer:
We have been receiving
and shipping home movie films for over 15 years and have never lost
a shipment. We always stress that it absolutely necessary to use a
tracking number and track it on-line during the shipping process.
We enjoy an excellent
relationship with the various shippers and we encourage you to let
us know what your tracking number is so that we can keep an eye on
your shipment which keeps us actively involved in the process as well.
Both FedEx and UPS enjoy
a good reputation as far as getting their packages shipped on time
and in good condition. Pack your items securely to avoid the possibility
of it opening during transit.
Avoid using a drop box
to place your shipment in, take the time to go directly to the shipper
or better yet have it picked up at your home or place of business
for a small extra charge. Depending on the weight you may want to
consider overnight shipping or 2nd day air.
Additional insurance is
available depending on the shipper based on replacement value only.
A 50’ reel of 8mm film including processing can be insured for its
replacement value of $25.00. As an example UPS charges 0.35 cents
per $100.00 of coverage. A 400’ reel insured for its maximum replacement
value of $200.00 would cost an extra 0.70 cents.
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