Have questions about preserving your family’s photographs, documents, films, or other cherished keepsakes? You’re not alone. We understand that entrusting irreplaceable memories to someone else is an important decision. Below you’ll find answers to the questions we hear most often about our preservation process, digitization services, timelines, care standards, and what to expect when working with Keyhole Archival. If you don’t see the information you’re looking for, we’re always happy to answer your questions personally.
How much does an archival project cost?
Every collection is different, so every project begins with a consultation rather than a one-size-fits-all price list.
Most Keyhole projects begin at approximately $2,500, which reflects the time and care required to professionally assess, preserve, organize, and document a family’s collection. Many families seeking our Preserve services fall near that investment, depending on the size, condition, and complexity of their materials.
Projects involving our Organize and Legacy services—which may include detailed metadata, research, family interviews, digital estate planning, or custom archival solutions—can represent a significantly larger investment.
Following your consultation, you’ll receive a written proposal outlining the recommended services, project scope, timeline, and total cost before any work begins. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges.
How long does an archival project take?
Most projects are completed within 4 to 12 weeks, although the timeline varies depending on the size and complexity of the collection.
A small family photo collection may take only a few weeks, while large multi-generational archives containing thousands of photographs, documents, and memorabilia naturally require more time.
Because every project is handled with care—not rushed through an automated production line—you’ll receive an estimated completion date before work begins, along with updates as your archive progresses.
Will I need to ship my collection?
Not necessarily.
For clients throughout the greater St. Louis region, Keyhole can often arrange personal pickup and return of your collection, allowing you to meet directly with your archivist and minimizing the handling of irreplaceable family materials.
For clients outside our local service area, secure, trackable shipping is an excellent option for most projects. Every collection is documented upon receipt and carefully managed throughout the archival process.
For particularly significant or sensitive collections, Keyhole may also offer white-glove courier service by arrangement. Rather than entrusting priceless family history to conventional shipping, your collection can be personally transported with documented chain-of-custody procedures from pickup through return. Because every collection is different, this premium service is quoted individually based on location and project requirements.
If you’re unsure which option is right for your collection, we’ll discuss the safest and most practical approach during your consultation.
What types of materials can Keyhole preserve?
Keyhole works with a wide variety of family history materials, including:
- Printed photographs
- Albums and scrapbooks
- Letters and correspondence
- Diaries and journals
- Military records
- Certificates and diplomas
- Newspapers and newspaper clippings
- Family Bibles and genealogy documents
- Slides, negatives, and film
- Maps and oversized documents
- Digital photographs and electronic files
- Audio and video media
- Other historically or personally significant memorabilia
If you’re not sure whether something can be preserved, simply ask. Many of the most meaningful family treasures don’t fit neatly into a category, and we’re happy to discuss the best way to incorporate them into your archive.