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Digitising family memories
Turning people's video tapes, slides and printed photos into digital files.
How to get started
- Get a video recorder, a capture device and a slide scanner, often available second-hand.
- Do a full test on your own memories to measure the time it takes.
- Set a price per tape or per batch of photos, with a USB stick as an option.
- Advertise locally and online, with tapes posted or dropped off.
Skills needed
- Computing
- Organisation and office software
Tools and equipment needed
- Computer
Good tips
- Clear file names (date, place, people) are very valuable to families.
- The end-of-year holidays are a good time: it makes a nice gift.
Watch out for
- Only digitise personal memories, never commercial films or DVDs.
- Old media are fragile: state your liability for damaged tapes in writing.
Rules to know
France
The simplest status is the micro-entreprise: platform income must be declared, even small amounts.
Belgium
You usually need self-employed status, which can be held alongside a job.
Simplified summary: check the official websites before you start.
How much it pays
Indicative amount, varies with region, experience and demand. Before tax and social contributions.
France
Estimate From €13 to €19 per tape (price paid by the client)
Prices paid by clients of a digitisation lab in France: €19 per VHS tape for 1 to 3 tapes, down to €13 above 20 tapes.
Indicative example: about €130 to €190 per month for 10 tapes per month.
Source: NVHS : tarifs de numérisation · Checked on 24 Oct 2026
Belgium
Estimate not available
No reliable source found yet: we prefer not to give a figure.