FAQ
+ How long will it take to scan my order?
For scanning, our regular turnaround time is 2-3 weeks. We do offer GUARANTEED rush services at additional cost if you need your project sooner. 7 days rush at +25%, 2-3 days rush at +50% and 1 day rush at +100%. For Processing, 7-10 Business days - Rushes can be accomodated depending on our workload. Turnaround times for each service are separate.
+ What is the best resolution for me?
It all depends on how you will be planning to screen your project. Also if you plan on future proofing it for the best archival quality available now.
4k is becoming a new standard for TV / Vimeo / Youtube etc.
Resolutions above 1080p give you more flexibility with your project to crop in and manupulate the image.
+ Is 4k overkill for super 8 / 16mm?
No. Having more pixels to resolve the grain provides sharper details and more clarity in the image than a 2k scan. Recommended to future proof your scan for potential distribution or screening in 4k.
+ What is HDR?
High-Dynamic-Range (HDR) is a technique that allows us to capture more information in the shadows and highlights. We flash the film twice (similar to photography bracketing) and combine the two images for an extremely smooth image with expanded highlight and shadow detail. Traditional scanning at other facilities may result in digital noise in the highlights or shadows from scanners that struggle to handle the contrast of film
+ How large of a hard drive/usb thumb drive will I need for my scan?
The size of the resulting files varies based on the resolution of the scan, the output format, and the amount of footage. Use this file size calculator to get an estimate of how large the resulting scan may be.
+ Can I receive my scan via upload instead of providing/buying a hard drive?
We do offer online file delivery services and use our own password protected servers to do so. However, the availability of this service depends on the size of the scan files. This is affected by the amount of footage, the resolution of the scan, and the output requested. If you would like your files uploaded please let us know and we will assess the viability of it based on the specifications of your order. Please note that we do NOT offer uploads of DPX/TIFF formats because of the mass number of files and data size.
+ What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash (in store only). ONLINE- Credit Card, EFT, Cheque, Direct Deposit and Interac e-transfers (preferred).
+ I’m coming to the studio, is there anywhere to park?
Free street parking. Also a few spots infront of our studio. Down the street is a parking lot by LA Fitness.
+ Do you offer discounts to LIFT members or students?
Yes, we offer a 10% discount on our scans to students and verified LIFT members.
+ I am not in canada, can I get my film scanned with you?
Yes, you can!
+ What makes you different then other places?
Check out our ‘our story’ page.
+ I have black and white or reversal film - where do I get it processed?
3 STEP TORONTO PROCESS / SCAN WORKFLOW:
- Fill out Frame Discreet’s Scanning order form.
- Fill out Niagara Custom Lab’s Processing order form.
- Ship / Drop off your film to NIAGARA CUSTOM LAB in OTTAWA and request Processing ONLY.
**NIAGARA CUSTOM LAB **
Toronto drop off /pickup address: 401 Richmond Street arts building down the lane off 129 Spadina Ave, in the coach house building where CineCycle is
Ottawa Address: 48 Raglan St. South Renfrew, Ontario K7V 1P7
We pickup from NCL in Toronto at NO COST TO YOU. Pretty standard procedure. If providing a drive, leave it with your film and we'll grab that too.
+ I have other questions
Ask us here: CONTACT US