Glass Negatives Digitisation Services
Digitise Glass Photo Plates
Glass photographic plates are a rare and beautiful piece of history that we are especially excited about here at EachMoment. Although glass plate photography techniques are still used on occasion today, the majority of glass negatives in existence probably date from the Victorian era. These delicate examples of historical photography will receive special care and attention while we work to preserve the images for future generations and continue the legacy that the first photographers have left for us to enjoy.
Why Should I Digitise My Glass Negatives?
Glass photo plates are among the most fragile photographic formats. Glass plate photography is where photography began, and preserving these images is essential. The potential for cracking or shattering, along with the risk of emulsion degradation, makes our digitisation process vital for preserving these historic photos. By digitising your glass negatives, you ensure that these irreplaceable images are preserved in high-quality digital formats, safe from physical deterioration.
How We Digitise Glass Negatives
Glass photo plates are already fragile due to their material, and their old age further complicates matters. The emulsions used during the development of the glass negative can become flaky over time, so we take extreme care when handling these. We use a combination of manual tools that can be applied sensitively, as well as high-spec scanners that will create the best possible digital recreation of the images.
Our digitisation process includes:
- We send you a Memory Box. You fill it with your glass negatives, and the box is collected from you and tracked to ensure secure delivery.
- All plates are handled using latex gloves in a dust-free environment to minimise contamination of the emulsion.
- Dirt and dust are gently removed using compressed air, microfibre cloths, or ultra-soft brushes.
- Scans are taken with an ultra-high-resolution scanner (4800dpi) to capture every detail.
- Digital editing tools convert negatives to positives and remove blemishes, restoring your images to their original glory.
- Images are transferred to your preferred storage option, such as USB, DVD, or digital download.
- All the original glass plates are returned to you, along with your new digital images.
A Brief History of Glass Plate Photography
Glass plate photography was one of the earliest widespread techniques for capturing still images. The "wet-collodion" process, invented in the mid-nineteenth century, required preparing and developing slides immediately. Despite the cumbersome process, the images produced were of high quality and remarkable clarity.
In the late 19th century, glass plates were replaced by photographic film, but some esoteric photographers still use them today for their tactile joy and historical development techniques. Preserving these early photographs is crucial for maintaining a connection to our photographic heritage.
Why Wait? Convert Your Glass Negatives to Digital Now!
Once these steps are complete, your glass negatives are fully converted to digital and ready to be enjoyed. Preserving your memories with an EachMoment Memory Box is a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Digitising your glass plates not only safeguards them against physical degradation but also makes it easier to share these precious memories with family and friends.
View PricingAdditional Services
We also offer digitisation services for other media formats:
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our glass negative digitisation service or any other services, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you preserve your precious memories.