Some Remarks on Motion Picture Film Digitization and Communicating Expectations to Digitization Vendors

Authors

Chris Lott, University of Georgia Brown Media Archives and Peabody Awards CollectionFollow
Alexander KrohFollow

Publication Date

10-2016

Abstract

This article examines archival methods for digitizing film assets and potential miscommunications of expectations when using third-party digitization vendors. In the course of outlining our department’s archival practices as they relate to film scanning, we provide a schema for communicating expectations with labs, ensuring the efforts of the lab best conform to an individual’s/institution’s expectations. By better understanding the process and the decisions that need to be made at each step, archivists will have surer footing in conversations with digitization labs and a better understanding of the cost-benefit trade-offs for certain services.