Knowing who handles your irreplaceable family memories is crucial for your peace of mind. That is why our entire archivist handling process in Victoria BC is built on a foundation of personal trust and meticulous, individual care. When you entrust your history to us, you are not sending it to a faceless warehouse; you are placing it directly into the hands of a dedicated local professional who will treat it with the reverence it deserves.
The Journey of Your Memories: Our Personal Handling Process
From the moment you arrive, you will notice a significant difference. Your irreplaceable photos, slides, and tapes never enter a massive sorting facility. Instead, they come into a dedicated, secure local studio where I personally oversee every single step. This ensures an unbroken and secure chain of custody from start to finish.
Step 1: Secure Reception and Detailed Intake
Our process begins with a personal consultation where we discuss your collection and your goals. First, I carefully inventory every box of slides, every film reel, and every videotape you bring. Consequently, each part of your collection is labeled and catalogued, ensuring perfect organization. We keep your family’s collection completely separate from all others throughout the entire project. You can learn more about this initial stage on our Suggested Internal Link: How It Works page.
Step 2: Preparing Your Media with an Archivist’s Care
Before any digitization begins, I prepare your media for the best possible transfer. For example, I use compressed air to gently remove dust from slides, clean film with specialized cloths, and inspect video cassettes for any potential issues. This preparation is a critical part of a professional archivist handling process and is performed with the utmost care, often using techniques recommended by preservation experts like the Suggested Outbound Link: Canadian Conservation Institute.
Beyond the Scan: A Commitment to Quality
Digitization is a science, but reviving a memory is an art. My work isn’t finished once the scanner turns off. In fact, that is often where the most important work begins, transforming a simple digital file into a vibrant piece of your family’s story.
Step 3: Personal Review and Thoughtful Enhancement
Subsequently, I personally review every single image and video file. I make subtle, professional-grade adjustments to correct colour fading, improve contrast, and crop images to bring the focus back to your loved ones. My goal is to present the memory as you remember it, full of life and clarity.
Step 4: Secure Digital Delivery and Return
Finally, your new digital archive is organized into a clear, easy-to-navigate folder structure. I then deliver these files to you securely on a high-quality USB drive. In addition, I carefully repackage all of your original media for its safe return to you, completing the circle of trust.
The Core of Our Archivist Handling Process in Victoria BC
Entrusting your family history to someone is a significant decision. My transparent, one-on-one process ensures you never have to wonder where your memories are or who is handling them. This meticulous, personal stewardship is the promise I make to every client, guaranteeing not only exceptional quality but also complete peace of mind.