How to prepare
your photographs.
A little preparation helps protect your originals, keeps collections organized, and allows us to begin your project accurately.
Whether you are uploading digital files, arranging a local drop-off, or mailing original photographs, follow the instructions below.
Send the best version you have.
Upload the highest-resolution version available.
Whenever possible, use the original scan or camera file rather than a copy downloaded from social media, text messaging, or email. Those services often reduce resolution and remove detail.
- Scan photographs at 600 dpi or higher when possible.
- Save files as TIFF, PNG, or highest-quality JPEG.
- Do not sharpen, enlarge, colorize, or apply filters before uploading.
- Include the entire photograph, including damaged edges and borders.
- Photograph both the front and back when names, dates, or notes appear on the reverse.
- Upload each photograph as a separate file.
- Do not place several photographs together in one image unless they are permanently mounted that way.
Do not worry if your scan is imperfect.
We will evaluate the file and tell you whether a better capture is needed before any restoration begins.
Keep the original order intact.
The order of a collection can contain important family information. Photographs grouped inside an envelope, album, box, or folder may belong to the same event, person, or period.
Do not reorganize everything before sending it unless you already know how the collection should be arranged.
- Keep photographs in their existing envelopes, folders, or groups.
- Number groups rather than writing directly on photographs.
- Use soft pencil only on the back edge when identification is necessary.
- Never use ink, markers, adhesive labels, tape, staples, or paper clips on an original.
- Place written instructions on a separate sheet.
- Note any known names, dates, locations, relationships, or events.
- Identify photographs that need restoration, colorization, backside capture, or special handling.
Do not clean or flatten damaged originals.
Fragile photographs can be damaged by well-intended cleaning or preparation.
Dust, mold, curling, torn edges, loose emulsion, cracked surfaces, and photographs stuck to glass require individual evaluation.
- Do not use household cleaners or water.
- Do not wipe the image surface.
- Do not peel photographs from albums, frames, or glass.
- Do not force curled photographs flat.
- Do not tape torn sections together.
- Do not laminate or place originals in self-adhesive sleeves.
- Do not remove mounted photographs from their backing.
Send the photograph in its current condition.
We will recommend the safest handling and capture method.
Protect against bending, movement, and moisture.
Original photographs should remain flat, supported, and unable to move inside the package.
Small Collections
Large Collections
Some originals should remain exactly where they are.
Photo Albums
Do not remove photographs from fragile, magnetic, or historically organized albums unless instructed.
Framed Photographs
Do not remove a photograph that is stuck to glass or sealed inside an old frame. Contact us before shipping framed glass.
Oversized Photographs and Documents
Do not fold, roll, trim, or force them into standard packaging. Contact us for packing instructions based on the exact dimensions and condition.
Negatives and Slides
Keep film in its existing sleeves, boxes, trays, or carousels. Avoid touching the image area. Handle film only by the edges.
Use tracked and insured shipping.
We recommend a carrier that provides tracking, delivery confirmation, and insurance appropriate to the value of the collection.
- Use a new or structurally sound box.
- Place your name and contact information inside the package.
- Include the project or intake number when available.
- Photograph the contents before sealing the box.
- Photograph the sealed package and shipping label.
- Retain the tracking number and receipt.
- Require a signature for especially valuable or irreplaceable collections.
- Do not ship until Romero Imaging has provided the correct mailing instructions.
Do not mail original photographs to an address found elsewhere online.
Complete project intake first. We will confirm the correct destination and handling instructions for your project.
Local drop-off is available by appointment.
Romero Imaging is based in the Orlando area.
Local projects may be delivered by appointment after project intake and scheduling. Do not leave photographs unattended or arrive without confirmation.
Tell us what matters.
Technical restoration decisions are easier when we understand what the photograph means to your family.
Include any information that may help:
- Names of people shown
- Approximate date
- Location
- Military branch, unit, rank, or era
- Known clothing or object colors
- Family reference photographs
- Important handwritten information
- Desired print size or intended use
- Particular faces or details that must receive special attention
You do not need to know everything.
Share only what is known. We will never treat uncertainty as fact.
Start with project intake.
Tell us what you have, upload reference images when available, and let us know whether you plan to mail originals or arrange local delivery. We will review the project and provide the next instructions before anything is shipped.