Film preparation involves organising, logging, cleaning, and repairing Negative, Intermediate or Print film reels to ensure they are ready for scanning, restoration, or archiving.

At a glance

●     Each film canister is logged and can be traced through our workflow process.

●     Detailed reports are provided on current film condition.

●     We talk to our clients before undertaking restoration work.

How we work

When receiving the shipment, SSR quantifies the delivery against the shipping list and immediately informs all interested parties of receipt and any discrepancies. Each film canister is then logged into our computerised library database to enable SSR’s tracking system. From this point forward, every movement of the film elements can be traced through the workflow process.

SSR have extensive experience handling reels in poor condition in a safe manner. Our film technician manually inspects each film on a flat-bed re-wind unit for overall integrity. During this time, repairs are made according to conservation protocols to enable safe transport on our machinery. Detailed reports can be compiled to disseminate current film condition. Beyond basic remedial interventions/repair SSR will contact the client with a description of the work that’s to be undertaken.

The final condition and film component will determine the most suitable type of cleansing prior to scanning. This will be carried out either manually, with or without solvent, or mechanically. We have chosen the non-immersive Cinetech BSF Hydra Film Cleaner, which uses minimal amounts of Isopar G solvent with excellent results. Transport and dirt removal can be modified to manage various aspects of film integrity and dirt distribution. Energy and solvent consumption are efficient thereby significantly reducing our carbon footprint.

Find out how we can manage this for you to the highest of standards –

call Mark on +44 (0) 7493 136542 or complete the contact form.