Image and Film: Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to our commonly asked questions here, including searching our catalogue, file formats, delivery and payment queries.

How do I search the collection?

Some of the collection is available to view/search online via the following platforms:

When searching online here are some tips:

  • Less is more. If this produces too many results gradually add more to your search criteria.
  • Use keywords relevant to the subject of your search rather than full sentences will produce better results.
  • When searching the Archives Catalogue include ‘digital image’ as well as your search item, for example ‘digital image trails’ this will identify all records that have a digital image and relate to trails.

How do I know what image size to request?

We offer high resolution, 300dpi image files:

  • A5 files have pixel dimensions of 2480 x 1748 pixels
  • A4 have pixel dimensions of 2480 x 3508 pixels
  • A3 have pixel dimensions of 3508 x 3961 pixels

These are standard values, but please bear in mind that the end point reproduction size depends on the dimensions of the original.

Do you provide images larger than A3?

Larger sizes are available for some of our images, but certain images may need to be photographed or scanned. If this is necessary, we will provide a quotation.

What types of film files do you provide?

  • We can supply .MP4 files with time-code and The Box logo for evaluation and review purposes.
  • For broadcast quality HD clips, we supply H.264 or P or DNxHD.mxf as clean files, 1920 x 1080 at 25fps. SD footage is typically de-interlaced and upscaled to HD but can be supplied as native if required.

What happens if I would like footage that isn't digitised?

You will be notified in the research report if this is the case. We will provide you with a quotation for digitisation.

What happens if I would like a different film format to the ones listed above?

If you need content supplied in any other format, contact us with your requirements.

How long will it take to deliver my image or film files?

While requests may be subject to resource availability, once we receive the completed enquiry form, we will conduct initial research and copyright due diligence, which may take up to 21 days. The digital file, image or footage, will be sent to you upon receipt of payment and signed agreement.

Why do you charge for providing images and film?

The revenue generated from our image and film service goes to support The Box in its commitment to preserve the city’s cultural collections and share extraordinary stories to explore the pressing issues of our age.

How much do you charge?

Permission/supply fees vary depending upon the nature of the project and are based on the rights, territories and duration required. We offer up to one hour of research assistance free of charge per enquiry.

All prices quoted are exclusive of VAT.

Refer to our rate cards for guidance:

Image Rate Card (PDF)

Film Rate Card (PDF)

Please be sure to complete the enquiry form thoroughly and include all relevant project information to ensure that we can provide an accurate quotation.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes we do, please contact us for details.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept credit/debit card payments through a secure link, which will be provided once terms have been agreed. A VAT receipt can be issued after payment is received.

If you need an invoice to be issued before payment in order to make payment via BACS, an additional £25 + VAT administration fee will be charged.