Photo Scanning Guide

​​To create your bespoke artwork, we need clear, high-resolution images. This guide walks you through the best ways to scan and send your photos—whether you’re using a home scanner, your phone, or a professional service.

 

1. Scanning at Home

If you have access to a flatbed scanner, this is the simplest and best way to get high-quality results.

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Our recommendations:

• Scan at 600dpi (minimum 300dpi)

• Choose Colour mode, even for black-and-white photos

• Save as JPG or PNG

• Don’t crop too tightly—leave a bit of space around each image, including a border if the photo has one.

• If the photo is framed, it's best to remove it from the frame before scanning if possible 

 

2. Using Your Phone Camera

With good lighting and the right app, your phone can be used as a scanner.

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Tips for great phone scans:

• Place the photo on a flat surface in even natural light

• Make sure the image is in focus. This usually means being at least 25cm (10 inches) from the photo

• Try to take the photo from directly above, without tilting your phone

• Use your camera’s highest resolution settings

• Clean your lens before snapping

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• Try a scanning app for better results:

  • Google PhotoScan (iOS/Android)

  • Adobe Scan (iOS/Android)

  • Notes app scan (iPhone users)

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If you're unsure, send us a sample and we’ll check the quality for you.

 

3. Professional Scanning Services

If your prints are precious or delicate—or you simply want the best possible quality—you may prefer to use a scanning service. This could include:

• Photo labs, print shops, camera stores

• Many offer same-day or next-day service
   

Mail-away options (UK & US):

• ScanMyPhotos

• Digital Converters

• Legacybox

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When using any service, request 600dpi colour scans in whatever scanned format they supply, and ask for your digital files via USB or email.

 

4. Damaged Photos?

We can do some light touch-ups—cropping, colour adjustment, and gentle clean-up.

 

But if a photo is:

• Torn or cracked

• Water-damaged

• Has mildew or heavy fading

 

…it may need professional restoration before we can use it in your artwork. If you’re not sure, send it through and we’ll let you know what’s possible.

 

5. File Format and Labelling

Please let us know who's in each image so we can avoid mix-ups. You can do this by:

• Naming your files clearly (e.g. Maria_and_David.jpg)

• Numbering your files and providing us with a list stating who's in each

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Also, please be sure to highlight any favourite photos you'd especially love us to use. 

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Questions? Just Ask

If you’re feeling unsure at any point, we’re always happy to help. Just email us using the form below.

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