Frequently Asked Questions

Do You have a demonstration of your transfer service?
Yes, we have a DVD that demonstrates the quality of our transfers. There is a deposit of $20 per DVD. If you return the DVD with your film order the $20 will be credited towards your order.

How can I tell what type of film I have?
Please take a look at our film format diagram to help you determine what type of film you have.

How do you transfer 8mm films?
We use high quality transfer equipment. Your film is transferred to the video computer using single-frame capturing equipment. This means that a picture is taken of each frame of your film and digitally copied to the video computer. It is then compiled to run at exactly 15 frames per second for 8mm, 18 frames for super 8 silent or 24 frames for super 8 sound. Your film is ran at a slow rate through the projection equipment to protect the film and obtain the best quality. We do not use the Goko Film system or any variable speed projection, nor do we use the Elmo projector. Our direct-to-digital transfer process ensures the best quality transfer at the exact frame rate that your film was originally shot at.

Is my film ran at a faster rate to sync with TV?
No. Your film will run at the exact speed the camera shot it. Our projection system is shutterless and uses the computer to capture each frame from the film. This eliminates the need to speed up the rate in order to synchronize with TV.

How do you transfer my 16mm film?
If your film is a silent 16mm, we use a frame-by-frame capture method that ensures that the film is played back at the speed it was originally shot at (18 frames per second).

If your film is a 16mm sound we use a telecine projector. This is the same projector that was used in TV stations when they broadcast 16mm films, and ensures the best quality capture of your 16mm sound film.

Do you edit my films?
We do not edit your film media. Instead, we will make any necessary edits (chapter breaks, scene transitions, etc.) on the video computer and return your films in their original condition.

What happens if my film is broken?
We will repair the film so that it can be run through the system.

Do you clean my film?
Yes. We use a high-quality cleaner and lubricant on the films.

Do you brighten up dark film?
We will attempt to lighten up any overly dark scenes, but sometimes this creates undesired effects. So it will depend on the scene and the effects it has. Sometimes it is best to leave these scenes the way they are on the film.

Should I number my films?
Yes, it is nice for your family history if the films are provided in a numerical order of some kind. If you do not know the order we will try to determine a logical order for the transfer.

Do I need to give you a description of what is on the films?
Yes, if at all possible. It will help us provide you with titles and on-screen descriptions. You can do this when filling out the order form. Please see the demonstration DVD for examples of titles and on-screen descriptions/sub-titles.

Do you censor subject material?
No, but if you have a question about what you want to have transferred please send us an e-mail or give us a call. We will try to work with you on all transfers. Alamo Film Transfers will not transfer material that is of an illegal nature.

How long will it take for me to get my movies back?
Transfers will usually take about 2 weeks ,unless it is a really large order. Please contact us for a more accurate estimate, especially if you have a very large order.

What if I want extra copies?
On the order form you may indicate that you want to order additional copies, either on DVD or VHS tape.

How do I get my films to you?
We highly recommend that you use postal service with a way to track your films sent to us (i.e. UPS, Fed Ex, or USPS Express Mail). Using a trackable courier service enables the confirmation of receipt of your order. Please ensure you properly pack your films to ensure safe transit. Your order will be returned via a trackable mail service.

Will you notify me when you receive the films?
Yes, if you provide an e-mail address or telephone number. We will advise you when your films are received, when we begin the transfer process, when the transfer process is completed, and when the order is shipped. We will provide the tracking number.

Is there a deposit required?
Yes, we require a deposit of $20.00 to begin any order. That is also our minimum charge.

Is there a possibility that my film can not be transferred?
This is always a possibility, depending on the condition of the film. We will do our best to do the transfer. If we can not transfer it due to prior damage we will let you know.

Can my films be put on tape?
Yes, we can put your film on ¾ inch Beta video tape, VHS, Super VHS, Digital 8, and Mini DV tape. We recommend that you obtain an initial transfer on DVD and then, if desired, add an additional format.

I had my films previously transferred to VHS or Beta and would like them put on DVD
We can do that. However, we would recommend you let us re-transfer the film for the best quality. The only exception would be if you film transfer was transferred to a Digital 8 or Mini DV tape.

I have home movies on video tape that I would like to have on DVD
We can do this as long as it is the above listed formats.

Do you add music to the silent films?
Yes, we use music from production houses that produce music for films. We will match the type of music to the contents of each scene.

What do you charge for the transfer?
Our basic rate is 12 cents per foot, with a minimum charge of $20. You can obtain an estimate of your job by using our ESTIMATE CALCULATOR. In addition, we offer tape-to-DVD transfer services. Please look at our "Services" section for details on this.

How should I package my films?
We suggest you pack them in a large enough box to add bubble wrap to protect them so they are not damaged during shipping. Also, please allow enough room to enclose your DVD or Video tape when we return your order.