PORTHOS MEDIA / SUMMERLAND, BC
Old media. New possibilities.
Preserve family memories, restore recordings, create something new and make your stories easier to share.
Preserve & restore
Tape and film transfers, photo and slide scanning, document scanning, audio digitization and restoration, and care for community archives.
Create & connect
Podcast production, copywriting, transcription, tribute videos, wedding websites and memorial websites—made around the story you want to tell.
Explore our services
Frequently asked questions
Tribute Videos & Slideshows
What is a tribute video or slideshow?
A tribute combines photographs, video clips and music into a personal keepsake for a celebration of life, birthday, anniversary or other gathering. Tell us the occasion, tone and event date, and we will help you plan a fitting length and quote the work.
What photos or videos do I need to provide?
Share the photos and clips you would like considered, along with names, dates and any must-include moments. We can help select and arrange material if you are unsure where to start. If your pictures are still in albums or on tape, tell us so digitization can be included in the quote.
Can we choose the music?
Yes. Suggest songs that matter to you, or ask us for recommendations. Tell us whether the tribute will be played privately, at an event or posted online so we can discuss suitable music and any permissions needed for that use.
How long is a typical tribute video?
Many tributes run for three to eight minutes. The best length depends on the occasion, number of images and speaking or video segments. We will help you choose a pace that gives the memories room without making the presentation feel rushed.
Can we use the video at a service or event?
Yes. Tell us about the venue's screen, projector or playback system so we can agree on a suitable file. Arrange a test at the venue before the event, and keep a local copy available rather than depending entirely on an internet connection.
Can we order copies to share with family?
Yes. We can arrange digital copies or physical media for family and friends. Tell us the number of copies and the devices people use when requesting your quote, so delivery and any additional-copy costs are clear from the start.
How long does it take to receive the finished video?
We confirm the timeline after reviewing the material and requested edits. If the video is for a service or a fixed event date, tell us immediately. We will explain what can realistically be completed in the time available before you book.
For Churches
Do you build websites for churches and religious organizations?
Yes. We build church and religious-organization websites with clear service times, events, contact details and giving options. Tell us what your congregation and new visitors need most so we can recommend a practical structure and quote the right features.
Can you digitize our church's historical records?
Yes. We can digitize photographs, bulletins, historical documents and other records. Share an approximate inventory, examples and any privacy or handling requirements so we can discuss formats, organization and a suitable project plan.
Can we stream or post sermons on the site?
Yes. We can include a sermon library for audio or video and discuss linking or embedding your streaming service. Tell us how you record and publish now; we will confirm the setup and any third-party services needed before work begins.
Can visitors sign up for events through the site?
Yes. Registration forms can collect responses for classes, gatherings and events. Tell us which details you need, who will manage responses and whether capacity limits or payments are involved so those requirements can be included in the quote.
Do you support online giving?
Yes. We can connect an appropriate payment or giving service. Your organization will need its own approved provider account, and provider fees may apply. We will discuss the options and setup with you before adding the feature.
Can we update the site ourselves after it's built?
Yes. We can give authorized staff or volunteers access to update announcements, events and photos. We will agree on who needs access and how much control they need, then walk your team through the editing process.
Do you offer multi-language support?
Yes. We can plan a website with multiple language versions. Tell us which languages you need and who will provide or approve translations so the content, navigation and ongoing update work are included in the project scope.
For Museums
Do you help museums digitize their archives?
Yes. We digitize photographs, documents and other collection materials for preservation, research and access. Send a sample inventory and describe your priorities, handling requirements and intended use. We will recommend a practical scope and provide an estimate.
Can you create a website to showcase our collection?
Yes. We can build a collection website with searchable galleries and item descriptions. Tell us whether access should be public, restricted or a mixture, and which catalogue information you already have. We can then plan a site that fits your collection and staff workflow.
What formats do you accept for museum archives?
We work with prints, negatives, slides, film and documents, with support confirmed for each collection. Send photographs, dimensions and format markings for unusual items. We will assess compatibility and condition before promising a transfer method.
Do you provide metadata or cataloging for digitized items?
Yes. We can organize files and attach information such as titles, dates and descriptions using the source details you provide. Share your naming conventions, catalogue fields and any required standards so we can agree on the metadata work before quoting.
Can multiple staff members access and update the site?
Yes. We can set up access for authorized team members to maintain the collection website. Tell us who needs to upload, edit or approve entries so we can plan appropriate access and a manageable publishing process.
Do you handle fragile or oversized items?
We can assess fragile, oversized and unusual items individually. Send dimensions, clear photographs and a description of their condition before moving or shipping them. We will confirm whether we can handle them and discuss a suitable approach; not every item can be safely digitized.
How long does a museum digitization project take?
Timing depends on quantity, condition, capture requirements and the level of cataloguing. Share your inventory and deadlines, including grants or exhibitions. We can discuss staged delivery and provide an estimated schedule after reviewing the collection.
Memorial Websites
What's included in a memorial website?
A memorial website brings a life story or obituary, photographs, video tributes, service details and a guestbook together in a mobile-friendly space. We can include a timeline of memories and help organize the material. Tell us your timing and priorities, and we will provide a clear quote.
Can family and friends leave condolences?
Yes. A guestbook lets family and friends share condolences and memories from wherever they are. We will discuss access and how contributions should be managed when planning the site, so it feels comfortable for your family.
Do you build memorial websites for pets?
Yes. We create memorial websites for pets, including photographs, stories and a place to share memories. You can choose a simple tribute or a fuller collection, and we will help you decide what feels right.
Can we include donation or charity links?
Yes. We can link to your chosen charity or memorial fund. Send the correct donation page and preferred wording so visitors can reach the intended organization directly.
Who can manage or update the memorial site?
You choose who can manage the site. We can give one or more family members access to add photographs and updates. We will explain the editing options and confirm any ongoing support in your project plan.
Do you work with funeral homes?
Yes. With your authorization, we can coordinate with a funeral home on photographs, service details and timing. Let us know who your contact is and what information you would like shared so communication stays clear.
Do you offer anniversary reminders?
Anniversary reminders can be included in the project plan. Tell us the dates, recipients and type of reminder you want so we can confirm the setup, consent arrangements and any ongoing service costs before adding them.
Can we choose a temporary or permanent website?
Yes. A temporary site uses a subdomain of porthosmedia.net with an agreed hosting period. A permanent site uses its own domain with ongoing hosting and renewal arrangements. We will explain the costs, support and options for keeping or closing the site before you decide.
Wedding Websites
What's included in a wedding website?
Your wedding website brings your story, photos, wedding party, schedule, venue details, travel advice and registry links together in one place. It includes mobile-friendly design and hosting for the agreed term. Tell us your wedding date and the features you want, and we will recommend a package and provide a quote.
Can guests RSVP through the website?
Yes. We can include RSVP tracking and guest messaging so responses are easier to manage. Tell us whether you need meal choices, plus-one details, password protection or questions for guests, and we will confirm the setup in your quote.
Do you help guests find the venue?
Yes. We include maps, directions and travel or accommodation information so guests can plan with confidence. Send us the venue details and any parking or accessibility notes you would like guests to know.
Can we share our own wedding photos on the site?
Yes. A photo gallery gives your favourite moments a home before and after the wedding. We can also discuss guest photo sharing and hashtags, including how submissions will be managed, when planning your site.
Do you offer ongoing support after the site is live?
Yes. Hosting support is included for the agreed hosting period. We will confirm how updates, additional content and any ongoing charges work before you book, so you know who to contact when plans change.
How long does it take to build a wedding website?
The timeline depends on the features you choose and how much content is ready. Send us your wedding date, desired launch date and any photos or wording you already have. We will confirm a realistic schedule before you commit.
Do you build wedding websites outside the Okanagan?
Yes. We are based in Summerland and work with couples throughout the Okanagan and across Canada. Planning, content sharing and reviews can happen remotely, so you can work with us wherever you are.
Can we choose a temporary or permanent website?
Yes. A temporary site uses a subdomain of porthosmedia.net and does not require a separate domain registration. A permanent site has its own custom domain. Permanent does not mean a one-time lifetime hosting payment: we agree on the hosting term, renewals, support and costs before work begins.
Document Scanning
Do you scan old letters and documents?
Yes. We scan letters, cards and handwritten documents into digital copies that are easier to view, share and back up. Searchable text depends on the original: handwriting and faded print may need transcription rather than automatic text recognition. Send a sample and describe how you want to use the files.
Can you scan certificates and official records?
Yes. We can scan certificates, diplomas and other records, aiming to preserve legible details such as signatures and seals. A scan is a digital copy, not a replacement for an original or a certified document. Tell us your required file format and purpose when requesting a quote.
Do you scan newspaper clippings?
Yes. We can assess and scan clippings, obituaries and articles. Leave brittle paper in its existing support and avoid flattening or repairing it yourself. Send us a photo of its condition so we can discuss careful handling before you bring it in.
Can you scan ledgers and family record books?
We can assess ledgers, journals and bound record books for page-by-page digitization. Send the book's dimensions, approximate page count and photos of the binding. We will confirm the capture approach and any limitations before work begins.
How are my scanned documents delivered?
We can arrange USB, digital download, external-drive delivery or a custom package. Tell us whether you need individual page images, PDFs, searchable text or a particular folder structure so the output is agreed in advance.
Can you organize my documents after scanning?
Yes. We can use clear file names and folders based on your existing records and instructions. Send a sample of your preferred structure, such as family, date or document type, so the organization work is included in the estimate.
Do you serve Penticton and the South Okanagan?
Yes. We are based in Summerland and serve Penticton, Peachland, West Kelowna, Kelowna, Oliver, Osoyoos and surrounding communities, as well as mail-in customers across Canada. Contact us with your collection details to arrange a handover or discuss shipping.
Transcription
Do you transcribe audio and video recordings?
Yes. We transcribe interviews, oral histories, podcasts, meetings, sermons and other recordings into readable text. Share the length, number of speakers, desired format and a representative sample. We will assess clarity and quote the work before starting.
Can you transcribe cassette tapes or old recordings?
Yes, where we can support the original format. We can digitize a tape first and then prepare a transcript, giving you both audio and text. Send a photograph of the tape and describe its condition so we can confirm the transfer and transcription scope.
Do you transcribe interviews and oral histories?
Yes. A transcript makes family stories and interviews easier to search, quote and pass on. Speaker labels and timestamps can be included. Send names, spellings and any useful background information to help us prepare an accurate, readable record.
Can you transcribe podcasts and video content?
Yes. We can prepare a transcript and discuss separate formatting for show notes or captions. Tell us where the content will be published and whether you need timestamps, speaker labels or a caption file so the deliverables are clear in your quote.
What format will my transcript be delivered in?
Word documents and PDFs are typical options, with speaker labels or timestamps on request. For video captions, we can also provide SRT files. Tell us which editing or publishing platform you use so we can confirm a compatible format.
Do you offer verbatim or clean transcripts?
Both are available. Verbatim retains filler words and false starts; a clean transcript removes them for easier reading while preserving the meaning. If your project has formal research or legal requirements, share those requirements before booking so we can confirm suitability.
Can I send you a large or long recording?
Yes. We can discuss long recordings and multi-part collections. Send the total duration, approximate number of speakers, deadline and a sample before transferring large files. We will confirm a suitable sharing method, quote and delivery schedule.
Video & Film Transfers
Can you transfer VHS tapes to digital?
Yes. We transfer VHS recordings to digital files you can watch, copy and share without a VHS player. Tell us how many tapes you have, any known damage and how you want the files delivered. Start an order for an initial estimate, or send photos if you need help identifying the collection.
Do you transfer camcorder tapes?
Yes. We support common camcorder formats including VHS-C, Hi8, Digital8 and MiniDV, with the exact format and condition confirmed before work. Send photos of the tapes and labels if you are unsure. We can also discuss organized folders and extra copies for family members.
Can you digitize 8mm or Super 8 film?
Yes. We can help digitize 8mm and Super 8 film. Send photos of the reels, containers and any labels, plus an approximate reel count. Format, footage and condition affect the price; we will assess the project and explain the next step before you proceed.
Do you digitize old videotapes?
Yes. We transfer many common consumer videotape formats, including VHS, VHS-C, Hi8, Digital8 and MiniDV. The tape's size alone may not identify the recording format, so send clear photographs of the labels and markings if you need help. We will confirm support before you send unusual media.
What format will my video files be delivered in?
We provide digital video files and agree on a format suited to your devices and plans. Delivery can be by USB, digital download or an organized external-drive archive, depending on size. Tell us whether you want everyday viewing, sharing copies or editing files before we quote.
Do old tapes lose quality over time?
Yes. Age, heat, moisture, wear and playback problems can make recordings harder to recover. Digitization preserves the material we can still read and makes independent backups possible. It cannot restore every missing detail, so let us know about damage or playback issues when requesting an assessment.
Can I mail my tapes or film to you?
Yes. We accept mail-in projects from across Canada. Local pickup and drop-off may be available in the South Okanagan, subject to location and scheduling. Contact us to confirm your formats, then follow the mail-in instructions and include your contact details, return address and project notes.
Photo Slide & Negative Scanning
Do you scan old family photos?
Yes. We scan family photographs into digital copies you can view, share, print and back up. Tell us roughly how many prints or albums you have and whether you need help organizing them. Do not force photos out of old albums; send us a sample photo and we will advise on the next step.
Can you scan 35mm slides?
Yes. We scan 35mm slides so you can enjoy the images without a projector. Give us an approximate count and tell us how you plan to use the files. For a large collection, we can discuss handling it together or planning the work in stages.
Do you scan negatives?
Yes. We scan common negative formats, including 35mm, into digital images. Send a photo of unusual sizes and tell us whether your priority is viewing, printing or archiving. We will confirm support, output options and delivery before beginning.
Can you organize the digital files?
Yes. We can group scans by year, event, person, album or original box, and use consistent file names. Keep existing labels with your collection and describe your preferred structure. We can also discuss a searchable archive and additional family copies as part of the quote.
Do you serve Penticton and Summerland?
Yes. We serve Summerland, Penticton and the wider Okanagan, with arranged local handovers and mail-in service across Canada. Contact us with an approximate count and your location, and we will confirm a convenient way to get your collection to us.
Can you scan photos for museums or archives?
Yes. We work with museums, archives, historical societies and private collections. Share sample images, the approximate collection size and any catalogue or capture requirements. We can discuss careful handling, organized files and a staged archive project.
Audio Digitization
Do you digitize old audio tapes?
Yes. We transfer supported audio tapes into digital files for listening, sharing and backup. Collections can include family voices, music demos, interviews, lectures and community recordings. Send a photograph of the format and an approximate count so we can confirm the options.
Can you transfer cassette tapes to digital?
Yes. We transfer cassette recordings to digital audio so you can listen without a cassette player and make backup copies. Tell us the number of tapes, approximate lengths and any playback problems. We can also discuss track separation and cleanup when preparing your quote.
Do you digitize voice recordings and interviews?
Yes. We preserve interviews, oral histories, family voices and spoken-word recordings in practical digital formats. Tell us whether you also want a transcript, labelled tracks or copies for relatives so those options can be included in the estimate.
Can you digitize records or vinyl?
Yes. We can digitize vinyl recordings, including family recordings, local music and personal collections. Send details of the record size, speed and condition. The source affects the result, so we will discuss realistic expectations and any cleanup before proceeding.
What format will my audio files be delivered in?
MP3 is convenient for everyday listening and sharing; WAV is larger and useful for editing and archival work. Tell us how you intend to use the recording, and we will agree on the right format or combination before transfer.
Can you clean up old audio?
Often, yes. Cleanup can reduce some noise, improve volume balance and make speech easier to follow. It cannot reliably recover sound that is missing or severely distorted. Share a sample if available, or describe the problem, so we can assess what improvement is realistic.
Can I mail audio tapes or records to you?
Yes. Follow our mail-in instructions and protect tapes or records against movement and impact. Include an inventory, project notes, contact details and your complete return address. Local customers can contact us about arranged pickup or drop-off before travelling.
Copywriting
Do you offer copywriting services?
Yes. We write copy for websites, businesses, creators and organizations across Canada. The aim is to explain your offer clearly and help the right customers take the next step. Send your current website, audience and goals so we can recommend the pages or materials to prioritize.
What types of copywriting do you provide?
We write website and landing pages, product descriptions, articles, newsletters, email sequences, brochures, bios, scripts, show notes and other business content. Tell us what you are creating and where it will appear. We can scope a single piece or a coordinated set of materials and provide a quote.
Can you write SEO website copy?
Yes. We can include keyword research, headings, page titles, meta descriptions, service and location copy, and internal-link suggestions. The content is written for the people you want to reach as well as search visibility. Rankings are not guaranteed; we focus on useful, relevant pages with a clear purpose.
Can you rewrite the copy I already have?
Yes. Send your current copy and tell us what is not working, such as unclear services, outdated information or a tone that does not fit. We can recommend focused improvements or a fuller rewrite and confirm the scope before beginning.
Can you write copy for a new website?
Yes. We can plan and write home, about, service, contact and landing pages, including FAQs and calls to action. Share your site plan if you have one; if you do not, we can help organize the message and quote the work alongside your design requirements.
Do you write blog posts?
Yes. We write articles that answer customer questions, explain your expertise and support relevant search topics. Tell us your audience, services and publishing goals so we can recommend a useful brief or a series of topics.
Can you help me figure out what to say?
Yes. Bring your rough notes, existing materials and the questions customers ask most often. We can help clarify the offer, organize the information and turn it into a focused brief. You do not need a polished draft before getting in touch.
Will the copy sound like me?
Your voice is part of the brief. We review your audience, existing materials and examples of language you like, then shape the copy around your business. Share any words, claims or styles you want included or avoided before we start.
Do you use AI for copywriting?
Our client copywriting service does not use AI-generated copy. If you have specific editorial or approval requirements, include them in your brief so we can confirm the working process before you book.
Do you work with copywriting clients outside the Okanagan?
Yes. We work with clients throughout the Okanagan and across Canada. Briefing and reviews can be handled through email, shared documents, calls or video meetings. Send an outline of the project and your deadline to request a quote.
Podcast Production
Do you offer podcast production services?
Yes. We can help with editing, audio cleanup, show notes, video episodes, clips, publishing support and planning. Tell us whether you are launching or already publishing, your episode length and frequency, and what you want help with. We will scope a practical production service.
Can you edit my podcast episodes?
Yes. Editing can include removing mistakes, improving pacing, balancing voices, reducing some noise and adding agreed intros or outros. Send a representative recording and your preferred style so we can assess the work and provide a quote.
Can you improve poor podcast audio?
Often, we can improve clarity and volume balance or reduce some background noise. Severe clipping, distortion, echo or missing audio may remain. Send a sample before booking cleanup so we can explain the likely improvement and avoid promising a result the recording cannot support.
Do you edit video podcasts?
Yes. We can edit video episodes for YouTube, websites and other platforms, including pacing, audio, title cards and agreed captions or clips. Tell us the number of camera feeds, episode length and required outputs so we can quote the complete workflow.
Can you create podcast clips for social media?
Yes. We can turn selected moments from an episode into short clips for platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube Shorts, TikTok and LinkedIn. Tell us your target platforms, preferred length and whether you need captions or branded graphics.
Do you write podcast show notes?
Yes. We can prepare descriptions, summaries, timestamps, guest information and useful links. Provide the recording and verified names or references, and tell us where the notes will appear so we can agree on the format and level of detail.
Can you help launch a new podcast?
Yes. We can help plan the concept, episode structure, recording workflow, production needs and launch material. Tell us who the show is for, what you want it to achieve and your budget. We will help identify the next practical steps before you invest in a large setup.
Can you help publish my podcast?
Yes. We can prepare files, descriptions and supporting material, and help with publishing to your chosen platforms. Tell us which hosting and channel accounts you use and who will approve episodes so the access and publishing responsibilities are agreed in advance.
Do I need professional equipment to start a podcast?
No. A quiet space, suitable microphone and good recording habits can be enough to begin. We can discuss a setup that fits your budget, room and interview format. Contact us before buying equipment if you would like help choosing what your show actually needs.
Do you work with clients outside the Okanagan?
Yes. We work remotely with clients across Canada and beyond from Summerland, BC. Share your episode format, frequency and a sample recording, and we will confirm a file-sharing process and production scope that fits your schedule.
Media Disposal
Can you dispose of my originals after digitization?
In some cases. We recommend keeping originals where possible, but can discuss disposal as part of your project. First check and back up the delivered files, then provide written permission for the agreed items and method. Ask about availability and costs before work begins.
Can you securely destroy private or sensitive materials?
Tell us about sensitive material before sending it. Different media need different disposal methods, and we will confirm what we can arrange for your items. If you need certified destruction or a particular standard, state that requirement before booking; ordinary disposal should not be assumed to meet it.
Can you recycle old tapes, discs, or media?
Some items may have suitable recycling routes, but tapes, film, discs and mixed materials cannot all go into household recycling. Tell us what you want to dispose of after digitization, and we will discuss the practical options and any costs for your collection.
Do I need to confirm disposal in writing?
Yes. We require clear written permission before discarding, destroying or recycling your originals. Confirm which items are covered only after you have checked and backed up the digital files. Keeping a copy of the instructions helps ensure the decision is clear.
What happens if I do not pick up my originals?
Please arrange pickup or return shipping once the project is complete. If you need more time, contact us. Storage or return fees may apply to items left for an extended period after contact attempts, and any disposal follows the terms agreed for your project.
Pricing & Turnaround
How much does photo, video, or audio digitization cost?
Your price depends on the media format, quantity, condition and delivery options. Use Start an order for an initial estimate, or send us a few photos and an approximate count if you are unsure what you have. We will confirm the scope and expected cost before beginning your project.
Can I get an estimate before you start?
Yes. Tell us what you have, roughly how much there is and how you want to use the files. We will provide an estimate and expected timeline before starting. If your materials are already with us and you decide not to proceed, we can arrange return by COD mail when you provide a complete return address.
Do you offer bulk pricing?
Bulk pricing may be available for larger collections. Send an approximate count of each media type and tell us whether you need folder organization, file naming, restoration or extra copies. We can then quote the collection together and discuss a manageable project plan.
How long does digitization take?
Timing depends on the collection size, formats, condition and current workload. Video and audio transfers, fragile items and detailed archive projects can take longer than straightforward scanning. Share any deadline when you enquire; we will give you an estimated turnaround before work begins.
Do you offer rush digitization?
Rush service may be available, subject to the project and our schedule. Tell us the event date, the amount of material and what you need delivered. We will confirm whether we can meet the deadline and whether a rush charge applies before you book.
Is there a minimum order?
Small projects are welcome. A minimum charge may apply where inspection, equipment setup or delivery takes significant time. Tell us what you have and we will confirm the minimum, if any, with your estimate.
Are there extra costs for damaged or difficult media?
Damaged, fragile, mouldy or difficult-to-play media can need additional assessment or restoration. Some items cannot be recovered. Describe known issues and send photos before shipping; we will explain likely extra work and costs before proceeding whenever possible.
Do I have to pay before or after the work is done?
Payment terms are confirmed with your estimate. A deposit may be needed for some projects, and final payment is typically due before files and originals are released. You will know the payment schedule before deciding to go ahead.
Drop-Off Pickup & Shipping
Where are you located?
We are based in Summerland, BC, serving the Okanagan and mail-in customers across Canada. Local handovers are arranged in advance. Contact us for an appointment and drop-off details; our published PO Box is a mailing address, not a walk-in shop.
Do you offer local pickup and drop-off?
Free local pickup and drop-off may be available for Southern Okanagan digitization orders, depending on your location, project size and scheduling. Send us your community and an outline of the collection so we can confirm arrangements before you book.
Can I drop off my photos, tapes, or other media in person?
Yes, by arrangement. Contact us first with the type and approximate quantity of media so we can confirm a convenient handover time and location. You do not need to sort everything perfectly before getting in touch.
Do you serve customers outside the Okanagan?
Yes. Customers across Canada can mail media to us. Contact us first if you have an unfamiliar format or fragile items, then follow our mail-in instructions. Include your contact details, complete return address and a description of the work. We will confirm the project details after the collection arrives.
Where do I mail my digitization order?
Mail your securely packed order to:
Porthos Media
PO Box 1056
Summerland PO
BC, Canada
V0H 1Z4
Include your name, phone number, email, complete return address and project instructions. Use our mail-in instructions to prepare your package. Transit loss, delays and damage are outside Porthos Media's responsibility.
How should I package my photos, tapes, or other media for mailing?
Use a sturdy box and enough padding to stop items shifting. Keep photos and other media in their existing labelled groups, and protect records, reels and fragile items individually. Include your details and an inventory inside the box. If anything is brittle, mouldy or unusually valuable, ask us about handling before packing.
What happens if I decide not to proceed after the estimate?
You can decline the estimate. If we already have your originals, we can return them by COD mail when you provide a complete return address. Ask us to confirm the return arrangements and costs before sending your collection. Transit loss, delays and damage are outside our responsibility.
Are my originals safe during pickup, drop-off, or shipping?
We handle originals carefully while they are with us. Mailing carries risks outside our control, so use a sturdy, well-padded package and consider tracking and suitable shipping insurance. If you prefer a local handover, contact us to check availability.
Preparing Your Order
How should I prepare my photos, slides, negatives, tapes, or other media?
Keep your collection in its existing groups, such as year, event, album or box, and leave labels with the items. Add a short note about the folder order you would like. This helps us keep the context of your memories when preparing your digital files.
Do I need to organize everything before bringing it to you?
No. An approximate count and a few photos are enough to start a conversation. Keep any existing labels and groups together. If you want help organizing a large or mixed collection, we can include that work in your estimate.
Should I remove photos from albums?
Only remove photos if they come out easily and safely. Do not force stuck or fragile photographs away from album pages. Send us a photo of the album and describe its condition so we can recommend the next step without risking the originals.
Should I clean my photos, slides, negatives, or tapes first?
Please avoid water, household cleaners, wipes, sprays and chemicals. Old surfaces and tape can be fragile, even when they look sturdy. If an item is dirty, mouldy or damaged, leave it as-is and ask us about assessment before attempting to clean it.
How should I label my order?
Include your name, phone number, email and complete return address if mailing. Number boxes or bundles and keep descriptions simple, such as 'Wedding photos' or 'Slides, Box 1'. Add your requested folder names and any priority items to the project instructions.
Can I include special instructions?
Yes. Tell us about priorities, the order of items, names, dates and anything that must stay together. If you need particular file names, folders, copies or edits, include those details before we quote so the finished collection works the way you need it to.
What should I include if I am mailing my order?
Include your contact details, complete return address, a brief inventory and the work you want done. Keep items grouped and labelled, pad them securely and retain a copy of your inventory. See our mail-in instructions for the address and packing guidance.
What should I avoid doing before digitization?
Avoid forcing photos from albums, cutting negatives, rewinding damaged tapes, adding tape or glue, or using cleaning chemicals. Keep original groupings intact. If something is brittle, tangled, mouldy or stuck, describe it to us before attempting a repair.
File Delivery & Storage
How will I receive my digitized files?
We can arrange USB drives, digital downloads or an external-drive archive to suit your collection. Tell us which devices you use and whether you need copies for relatives. We will confirm file formats, organization, delivery method and any drive or additional-copy costs in your estimate.
Can you put my files on a USB drive?
Yes. A USB drive provides a physical copy of your photos, videos, audio or documents. Tell us what you want to play the files on so we can discuss compatibility. We can also quote extra drives for family members; keep another independent backup of important files.
Can I get my files by digital download?
Yes, when online delivery suits the collection size and your internet connection. For files delivered through your client area, the included download period is six months. Download and back up your files during that time. Large video collections may be more practical on a USB or external drive.
What file formats do you provide?
We choose formats around how you want to view, share, print or archive the material. Audio can be supplied as MP3 or WAV; image, document and video options depend on the project. Tell us about your devices or any archive specifications before we quote so we can confirm the right output.
Can you organize my digital files into folders?
Yes. We can group files by year, event, person, album, box or another agreed structure. Keep labels with your originals and tell us how you would like to find things later. For larger collections, ask about an organized, searchable external-drive archive and additional family copies.
Can you name the files for me?
Yes. We can agree on a naming system based on your labels, such as year, event, collection and item number. We use the information you provide rather than guessing who or what is pictured. Include detailed naming requirements when requesting a quote.
Do you keep a backup of my files?
We may keep working copies during production and delivery. Files delivered through the client area are available for six months, but you should download and make independent backups promptly. Do not rely on our working storage as your only copy. Ask us about any longer-term storage arrangements before the download period ends.
How long should I keep my originals after digitization?
Keep originals whenever possible because they can have sentimental, historical or archival value beyond the digital copy. Store them in a cool, dry place. If you cannot keep them, discuss disposal with us and confirm the agreed handling in writing after checking and backing up your files.
Safety Care & Privacy
How do you handle original photos, slides, negatives, tapes, and other media?
We handle each collection with care, whether it is a few family photos or a larger archive. Labels and project instructions help us maintain order and identify fragile items. Tell us about any damage, unusual materials or special handling needs before the collection arrives.
Are my family photos and videos kept private?
Yes. We treat your personal media and files as private and do not publish them or use them in marketing without your permission. Let us know about any particular confidentiality or access requirements before starting so we can confirm the arrangements for your project.
Do you look through every photo or video?
We review material as needed to transfer it, check quality and organize the agreed files. That can involve viewing images or listening to recordings, but it is limited to completing the work. We treat what we see and hear as confidential.
What happens if my media is damaged or fragile?
We assess the condition and explain what may be possible. Fragile, mouldy, tangled or damaged items can need additional work, and some cannot be recovered. Send photos and a description before shipping so we can discuss handling, likely costs and the next step.
Can digitization damage my originals?
Careful handling reduces risk, but no process can remove the risks already present in ageing or damaged media. We will flag concerns we notice before proceeding whenever possible. Tell us about known damage or previous playback problems so we can assess the item appropriately.
What happens if my media is lost or damaged in the mail?
Transit loss, delays and damage are outside Porthos Media's responsibility. Pack securely and consider a tracked service and appropriate insurance. Keep a copy of the inventory and shipping details. For local collections, ask whether a pickup or arranged drop-off is available.
Can I ask you to delete my digital files after delivery?
Yes. Once you have received, opened and backed up the files, you can request deletion of our temporary working copies. Confirm that everyone who needs a copy has saved it first, because deleted working files may not be recoverable.
Have a collection or project in mind? Estimate a digitization order or ask us for a project quote.
