PORTHOS MEDIA / SUMMERLAND, BC
Give every word a place.
Turn audio and video recordings into useful written content for interviews, podcasts, oral histories, meetings and archives.

Make recordings easier to use
A transcript helps people search, quote and revisit what was said. Share the recording length, number of speakers and any specialist names or terminology with us.
A format that fits the project
Tell us whether you need a readable transcript, a closer word-for-word record, timestamps or speaker identification. We confirm scope, turnaround and price before work begins.
TELL US WHAT YOU HAVE IN MIND
Let’s talk about your project.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Project Planning & Payment
Can I get a quote before booking my project?
Yes. Tell us what you would like us to create, what material you already have and when you need it. We will confirm the scope, deliverables, expected cost and schedule before work begins.
How long will my project take?
The timeline depends on the scope, the material you provide, any reviews or edits, and our current schedule. Tell us your deadline when you enquire. We will confirm an estimated schedule before you book rather than promise a fixed turnaround for every project.
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.
What payment methods do you accept?
Use the payment options shown on your invoice. These can include card, PayPal and Interac e-Transfer. If you need a particular payment method, ask us when requesting your estimate.
Creative Files & Delivery
How should I send you my digital files?
Contact us with an outline of your project and the type and approximate size of your files. We will confirm a suitable sharing method before you send a large collection. Include any instructions, preferred order, names and deadlines with your material.
How will I receive my finished files?
We agree on the delivery method with you before work starts. Digital download is available when it suits the project. Tell us how you plan to use or share the finished work so we can confirm a practical delivery method and any additional-copy costs in your quote.
How long will my download be available?
Files delivered through your client area are available for six months. Download and back up your files during that time. If you need help accessing a delivery or want to discuss longer-term storage, contact us before the download period ends.
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.
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.
Preparing Your Order
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.
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.
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.
Have a project in mind? Ask us for a project quote.
