Sep 4, 2008 2:32 pm US/Eastern
Angie's List: Converting Home Movies
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
So many people count on home movies to record special memories like weddings, birthdays, proms and many other treasured moments. But too often they go unwatched because of the hassles of setting up the equipment to watch them. In this week's Angie's List report, Jim Donovan explains why you might want to convert those old home movies to newer technology.
Pulling out those old memories can be lots of fun. But if they've been stored too long those precious moments might actually start to disappear. If baby's first words are hidden away you can't enjoy them. And if they're on an old format you're less likely to take a trip down memory lane. So it's a good idea to transfer them to a new format so you can see them now and in the future.
"People need to be concerned about the condition of their VHS tapes or their old films because actually what's happening over time is that film is deteriorating and you could lose those memories. So having them updated to today's technology is going to be important so that they last," said Angie's List founder, Angie Hicks.
You can do the job yourself but Angie says it might be a good idea to hire a professional.
"If you're going tackle a project like getting your film converted offer to a DVD look for a company that has restoration as well as editing involved because that company may be to help improve the quality of the final project. And then also, start small. Start with a single VHS tape that you're not terribly concerned with so you can build up trust before you had over all your family home videos," said Hicks.
Advice on transferring your old movies, photos and slides:
Services: If you're on a conversion mission, don't forget those old photos and even slides. They can be put onto a DVD for safe keeping. Many companies can also convert old audio to CD's and convert your videotape/DVD to computer video files. That way you can share video over the Internet, via e-mail, or by posting it on your website.
Restoration: Not only will many companies convert your old reels and tapes to a format you can use, some also offer restoration and editing services. Some might be able to cut out the dead space on the reel, or even add music and graphics to the finished product.
Finding a company: A basic service will turn your old video into DVD files, but some companies are a little more advanced and may offer editing and restoration as well - a great idea if your videos are in bad shape.
Costs: This will depend on what format your old home movies are in. VHS may be priced by the minute, whereas older reels of film may be priced by the foot. Check with the company for exact figures
Storage: Highly-rated video production companies say the best place to store old film reels is in a cool, dry place. Avoid a hot attic damp garage/basement. Do not store film in plastic bags. Films need to breathe and needs exposure to oxygen - ยท Lack of ventilation causes the films rate of decomposition to increase.
Hang onto them: Even if you convert your old home movies, keep the originals.
Start small: You may feel a little apprehensive leaving the original copies with just anyone. Highly-rated companies on Angie's List recommend starting with a small project. For example, take in one video cassette and have them convert it to DVD. If you like the quality of the finished product, then you can talk about bringing in the old reels and slides to create a tribute for grandma's birthday.
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