We know how important your family films and video tapes are, and how many special memories they hold. If you’re thinking about having them transferred to digital, you may have lots of questions — from what formats we handle, to what you’ll get back, and how safe the process is.
Here you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions, so you know exactly what to expect before you get started.
What formats can you transfer?
We work with all sorts of formats including VHS, VHS C, Betamax, 8mm, Hi8, Digital8, MiniDV, Super 8, Standard 8, and 16mm film.
Not sure what you have tucked away in the cupboard? No problem. Just snap a quick photo of your tapes or reels and send it over. We will let you know exactly what they are.
What happens to my tapes or films?
Before transfer, your films are carefully cleaned with dedicated film cleaning materials to remove dust and dirt, and repaired where needed so they run smoothly. This process is gentle and completely safe for your films. Your recordings are then played back on high quality machines and captured in digital format. Once complete, we return your original films and tapes along with your new digital versions, so you can keep them safe for the future.
How long does the transfer take?
Most projects are completed within one to two weeks, depending on the number of orders we have. For small or urgent jobs, we can often make special arrangements. If you need your films or tapes ready by a certain date, just let us know and we will do our very best to help.
What will I get back?
We can provide your memories in a number of different video formats if required. We use DaVinci Resolve Studio, a professional video editing and mastering program, which allows us to export your recordings in the file type that best suits your needs. If we know in advance, we can create your videos in the format you prefer. If no preference is given, we supply MP4 files, which are widely supported and easy to play on modern devices such as computers, tablets, and TVs.
You can choose to receive your memories as:
• Digital files you can play on a computer, TV, tablet, or phone
• A USB stick
• A download link
• Or a DVD if preferred
Whichever option you choose, your videos will be easy to watch and share with family and friends.
Your original tapes and films are always returned.
What quality can I expect?
The transfer will look and sound as good as the original recording allows. If the tape or film has aged, faded, or suffered damage, this will usually show in the digital copy. Digitising now protects them in their current state before they get any worse.
Why should I transfer my recordings now?
our old tapes and films won’t last forever. As the years go by they can:
• Lose their colour and sound quality
• Play back with picture or sound problems
• Grow mould if they’ve been stored somewhere damp
• Become impossible to watch as video players and projectors disappear
Transferring them to digital now means you can save those memories just as they are today, stop them from getting any worse, and keep them safe in a format that can be copied and shared with family for generations to come.
Is it safe to send my memories?
Yes. We understand that your recordings are truly irreplaceable, and every order is handled with the greatest care. Your films and tapes remain safely in our workspace throughout the process and are always returned to you along with your new digital copies.
If you are posting your items to us, we recommend using Royal Mail Special Delivery, which is tracked and signed for. This is a very reliable service and it’s extremely rare for anything to go wrong in the post, but please note that we cannot take responsibility for items while they are in transit.
How much does it cost?
Our pricing is clear and straightforward with no hidden extras. Whether you have a single tape or a box full of reels, we will always give you a clear quote before starting any work. If you have any questions about prices or additional requests just ask and we will be happy to help.
Who are you?
We are a small independent business based in York and we have been helping families preserve their memories for a number of years. In that time we have received over 50 five star reviews on Google from families who have trusted us to transfer their films and videos. Every tape and reel is treated with care and respect because we know just how important these moments are.
Use our contact form or give us a call and we will be happy to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and help you get started with transferring your films and videos.