Order Photographs & Scans

How do I place a digital or photographic reproduction request?

If you are ordering photographs and you already have the order number(s) of the images to be reproduced, then you just need to print out a copy of the Reproduction Request Form, fill it out (be sure to sign it) and either fax it back to us or mail it to us. You can also bring your completed form to us directly during our hours of opening. Many patrons use our Digital Collections to identify items of interest. Ordering reproductions for other materials may require a personal visit to the Special Collections Division to identify the materials you require. Note: Because a signature is required before your order can be processed, we are unable to take reproduction requests for photographs and scans over the phone at this time. For further information about ordering or using images, please contact us at photos@u.washington.edu or by phone at (206) 543-1929.

Can I use images from Special Collections for publication?

Once you have ordered a print or scan, you cannot use it for anything other than classroom use, student projects, personal display, or research without requesting formal permission. In some cases, licensing fees for publication will apply in addition to reproduction costs. Please see the page for Permission for Publication.

For further information about ordering or using images, please contact us at photos@u.washington.edu or by phone at (206) 543-1929.

How long does it take and how much does it cost?

Standard Orders (up to 20 images) will take three weeks to complete. During summer quarter and interim periods, it may take as long as four to six weeks. Expedited service may be available for an additional fee depending on current staffing and workloads. Email photos@u.washington.edu to discuss availability of expedited service and fees.

Large Orders (more than 20 images) will take longer to complete depending on staffing levels and current workload. If you have a time constraint, you should email photos@u.washington.edu well ahead of your deadline to see if your order can be accommodated. Prepayment may be required.

See our fee schedule for current prices. There is no need to pre-pay unless your order exceeds $200. Our lab will invoice you for your order.

Where do I pick them up and can they be mailed?

Most orders may by picked up at the CSS Photography Lab in the basement of Kane Hall on the UW campus, or you may have them mailed directly from the lab. There are fees for shipping and handling. You may check on your order or inquire about mailing charges by calling the lab at 206-543-9912 or emailing us at photos@u.washington.edu.

A Nakoaktok Chief's Daughter. (North American Indian, E.S.Curtis, vol. 10, plate 334). Special Collections, UW Libraries, NA418.

What materials can be digitally or photographically reproduced?

Materials in the collection, including books, manuscripts, archival documents, photographs, maps, architectural drawings, and ephemera may be reproduced digitally or with a black and white photographic print. The availability of reproductions is subject to the materials' size, condition, and copyright restrictions. Requests for reproductions may be denied if such work would damage the materials to be copied.

Can I get maps, architectural drawings, and oversized graphic materials reproduced?

Generally, yes^*. Please use the Reproduction Request Form for Oversized Materials to place your order. Costs vary according to what processes are suitable, the sizes of the original, and the desired copy. See the reproduction fee schedule for current prices. Turn around time is dependant on the condition of the original and whether stabilization is required first. If you have a time constraint, you should email photos@u.washington.edu to verify whether your deadline can be met before placing your order. Standard orders not requiring stabalization can be completed within three weeks.

^*Special Collections Division reserves the right to deny a reproduction request if doing so would damage the original.