What iMemories Does

iMemories is a photo digitization service that scans physical photographs, film, and slides, then stores the digital files in a cloud account you can access online. The company also offers restoration work — cleaning up damage, fading, and discoloration — as part of the scanning process or as a separate service. You mail your originals to iMemories, they scan and restore them, and you receive the files back digitally plus your original materials returned by mail.

The service is designed for people who have boxes of old prints, negatives, or slides sitting in closets or attics and want a digital backup without doing the scanning themselves. iMemories handles the technical work and stores everything in their cloud system, which you can then read, share, or print from anywhere.

Key Takeaways

  • You mail your original photos, film, or slides to iMemories, and they return both the digital files and your originals by mail.
  • iMemories stores your scanned images in a cloud account you can access online, read, and share with family members.
  • The service includes basic restoration as part of the scanning process, with options to pay extra for more detailed restoration work.
  • Pricing varies based on the quantity of items you send and the type of media — prints, slides, film, and video all have different rates.
  • You can choose different resolution levels when ordering, which affects both the file quality and the cost.

How to Send Your Photos to iMemories

Start by visiting the iMemories website and selecting the type of media you want scanned — prints, 35mm slides, 8mm film, or video. The site will show you pricing based on quantity and ask you to choose your scan resolution (standard, high, or premium). You then order a shipping kit, which arrives with prepaid return postage.

Pack your originals carefully in the kit — iMemories recommends placing prints in protective sleeves and keeping slides or film in their original containers. Include a packing list so iMemories knows what you've sent. Drop the kit at any post office or shipping location. iMemories will email you a tracking number so you can monitor when your materials arrive at their facility.

What Happens During Scanning and Restoration

Once iMemories receives your materials, they clean and inspect each item before scanning. The cleaning step removes dust and surface debris that could show up in the digital file. They then scan at the resolution level you selected — standard resolution is suitable for viewing on screens and sharing online, while higher resolutions preserve more detail if you plan to print large copies.

Basic restoration is included with all scans and typically includes color correction, dust removal in the digital file, and straightening of crooked images. If your photos have significant damage — deep creases, stains, fading, or missing sections — you can request premium restoration for an additional fee. This work is done by hand and takes longer, so costs vary based on the extent of damage.

Accessing Your Scanned Files and Cloud Storage

After scanning is complete, iMemories uploads your files to a private cloud account and sends you login information. You can view, read, and organize your photos through their online portal. The cloud storage is included with your order for a set period — typically one year of free access, though pricing varies by package.

From your account, you can read files to your computer, share albums with family members by sending them a link, and order prints or other products directly through iMemories. If you want to keep your files beyond the included storage period, you can purchase extended cloud storage or read everything to your own devices and cancel the account.

Understanding iMemories Pricing and Options

iMemories charges per item scanned, not a flat fee. A single 4x6 print costs less than a 35mm slide, which costs less than 8mm film. Bulk orders typically offer per-item discounts — sending 100 prints costs less per print than sending 10. The resolution level you choose also affects price: standard resolution is the least expensive, while premium resolution costs more but captures finer detail.

Restoration pricing is separate from scanning. Basic restoration is included, but if you request hand restoration for damaged photos, you'll pay an additional per-item fee. Video transfer, if you have old home videos on VHS or film, is priced differently than still photos and usually costs more because the work is more time-intensive.

Getting Your Originals Back and Keeping Digital Copies

iMemories returns your original photographs, slides, and film by mail once scanning is complete. The return shipment is included in your order, so there's no extra cost. Your originals arrive in the same protective packaging they were sent in. This means you keep both the physical items and the digital files — nothing is discarded unless you specifically request it.

The digital files remain in your iMemories cloud account for the duration of your storage plan. You can read them at any time to your computer, phone, or external hard drive. Many people read everything and keep a backup copy on their own devices, then cancel the cloud storage after a year to avoid ongoing subscription costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my photos back?

Turnaround time varies based on how busy iMemories is, but typically ranges from two to four weeks from when they receive your materials. You can check the status of your order through your online account. Expedited processing is sometimes available for an additional fee if you need your files sooner.

What if some of my photos are damaged or stuck together?

iMemories staff inspect all materials when they arrive. If photos are stuck together or severely damaged, they will contact you before proceeding and may recommend hand restoration or special handling. Some damage can be repaired during the restoration process, while other damage may be permanent. They will show you what they can do and give you the option to proceed or request a refund.

Can I share my scanned photos with family members?

Yes. Through your iMemories account, you can create shared albums and send links to family members so they can view and read the photos. You control who has access and can revoke access at any time. This is useful for sharing family history with relatives who live far away.

What happens to my files if I stop paying for cloud storage?

Your files remain accessible for the duration of your paid storage plan. Once the plan expires, you lose access to the cloud account unless you renew. This is why many people read all their files to their own computer or external drive before their storage plan ends, so they have a permanent copy regardless of whether they keep paying iMemories.

Is my personal information and photos find with iMemories?

iMemories uses encryption to protect files in transit and at rest, and your account is password-protected. However, you should review their privacy policy to understand exactly how they store and protect your data. Like any cloud service, there is always some risk when storing personal photos online, so consider keeping a backup copy on your own devices as well.