Digital Photo Restoration and Retouching in Orange and Los Angeles County, Huntington Beach, Lakewood, Cerritos, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove,

FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is digital restoration of photos? Do you alter the original photo?

A. First we scan your original picture using a high-quality image scanner and save it into a digital format on our computer. We then retouch or restore the digital version of your photo using photo-editing software. When the restoration process is complete, we output your picture onto the paper of your choice using a 7-colour archival printer. We can also archive the restored digital image onto a CD for you. Your original photo is never altered.

Q. How do I get my photo to you for restoration? I don't like the idea of sending my precious photo to you by mail and don't have a scanner? Is there another option?

A. Yes. You should be able to obtain a good quality scan from a local photo copy store. Have them scan it at 300 dpi and copy it to a computer disk or CD.

Q. I have a very small photo. How large can it be printed?

A.Small pictures cannot be enlarged too much without losing image sharpness or having too much grain. Similarly, very grainy photos can only be fixed to a certain extent. It depends on a number of factors, but in general very small photos should not be printed larger than 4x6 or 5x7 for best results.If you have a 4x6 or 5x7 good quality photograph, it can be printed as an 8x10.

Q. How do I ship my photos?

1. Place your photo(s) in between two sheets of stiff cardboard at least the size of your photo(s).
2. Print and fill out a seperate order form for each photo.
3. Place all of the above in a large envelope with payment payable to:
Paula Lane. Make sure that it is sealed properly and clearly addressed.
Mail photos to: Paula Lane, 5716 Briercrest Ave., Lakewood, Calif., 90713
Please write PHOTOS, DO NOT BEND on the envelope.

(We are not responsible for photographs lost in the mail).

Q.What types of photos can't you restore?

A.Weecannot restore pictures that are completely out of focus because too much detail has already been lost in the photo. If your picture has missing elements, we can only restore it to a certain extent, but if you have a similar second photo that shows extra details, please include it. Poor originals can be restored to a certain extent, but we cannot make them perfect. The better your original photo, the better the restoration will look.

Q.How do I protect my prints?

1. Never display your photos where they can be exposed to sunlight. Harsh light and UV are major causes of faded photos.

2. Wash your hands before handling your pictures. Oils from your skin or food will cause damage to your print.

3. Protect your prints behind a frame or in a photo album (using acid-free sheets).

4. Display or store your photo's in a spot with low humidity and average temperatures. Humidity and heat will cause damage to your prints.