As you browse the site you will notice some features that set our service apart from other online archival and stock footage sites.
- The FilmFileShop is totally file based. The advantage is obvious. We only carry high quality professional telecine transferred files. The majority of our files are 10-bit uncompressed high definition files that were captured directly to hard drive from a full bandwidth high definition telecine. None of our high definition files were captured from any type of compressed tape medium. (In other words, we did not capture first to HD tape. It also means that we did not upconvert from a standard definition file or tape.) Because our files begin as uncompressed files, even our online free 160 x 120 QuickTime "screeners" are good quality. NOTE: the streaming files DO NOT work in the Firefox web browser.
- We do not deliver titles on tape or DVD. Our downloads are 480 x 360 and we've been told that even at that resolution, they are superior to the typical DVD that can be purchased from other sources offering archival titles. These files are designed to be laid into a timeline as a placeholder, for use in online instruction or preliminary research. Higher resolution files, including the 10-bit uncompressed high definition files, can be purchased for delivery via hard drive. (Note: 1 minute of 10-bit uncompressed material requires 8 GB of storage.)
- Files derived from standard definition broadcast quality video are clearly marked in the store with an "SD" after the item name.
- Most catalog item names are based on the nomenclature used by the National Archives (NARA). See our search page to better understand the correspondence between our numbering and NARA's.
- Want a preview of titles in the collection? Click here for Issue One (over 3000 items).
The search capacity is the most difficult and
time-consuming section to update in the store. We're daily upgrading the keywords and
phrases to make this function more powerful but it does take time. The
search window will allow searches by NARA item numbers (NAIL or ARC) number
as well as by keywords. As time progresses we'll have descriptions in and
the search function will become very powerful. We hope that the ability to
preview the files directly in the store will help you make decisions. Look
for the Preview Available graphic or text.
You have the choice of viewing the streaming file online or purchasing and downloading the file for your own use. All the files in the FilmFileShop are public domain items but you're responsible for determining the end use and rights. When you purchase a file you have 60 minutes to download before the software ends the download sequence. If you have a slow connection only buy what will download within 60 minutes. We recommend that you purchase one file first to determine your specific download speed. Once you purchase the file, you will be emailed a link to the download location. Please disable all spam blocking software so this link will come through.
Once you identify files that you wish in either 10-bit uncompressed high definition or standard definition, email us with the item numbers (as listed in the FilmFileShop store). We will send you an estimate for the files, the cost of the hard drive transport and shipping.
Please note: we only provide files via hard drive.
- High definition file: $225 per 10-minute title
- Standard definition file: $110 per 10-minute title
- Ready to stock up? See our Passport to History option!
In the event you have any problems or issues with your files please email us at sales@filmfileshop.com and we'll respond within 24 hours or less. There are no refunds for any sales and we have alternate methods for delivering files should your download fail.
