Photographs: Research & Ordering

Tags: arts, how-to, photos

Fall 2025: Photograph Duplication Service Paused

Most distance copy and research services--including photo reproduction services--are currently paused as we adjust our daily operations. We expect to reintroduce these types of services throughout the Autumn and Winter.

 

 

 

Prices for Digital Scans

Digital Scans:

The price of a digital scan is determined by the resolution of the image/size of the file.  See "Selecting a File Type" below for more information.   

Standard  $7
Large $25

Oversized*

$35
Extra-Large (Exhibit Quality)

$60

*Digital copies of original materials that are larger than 24 x 36 inches cost $35.  This oversized category includes things like maps, posters, railway technical drawings, and architectural plans. This selection is not available for images in Collections Online.  

Prints:

We are unable to make photo prints, all image orders are fulfilled digitally. 

 

Minnesota Historical Society Members receive a 10% discount on image duplications. 

 

Selecting a File Type for Digital Scans

File Type Best For Technical Info
Standard Internet publishing, reports, emails, student work, presentations, some printing (at original size or smaller only). 

JPEG only
1500 pixels, ~300 dpi 
2 to 15 MB file size 

Large Most uses, including publishing, documentary filmmaking, and printing up to 16x20 inches (unless original is very small) TIFF or JPEG
3000-6000 pixel, ~300-600 dpi
20 to 60 MB file size
Oversized (This option is only available via our Digital Image Request Form) Mandatory selection when requesting scans of maps, posters, technical drawings, blueprints, or any other item that is larger than 24 X 36 inches. Image quality will depend on the size and legibility of the original item. Files are faithful digital reproductions of the original items and are digitized at an appropriate resolution to display fine details. 

TIFF or JPEG

Because each item is different we cannot give exact file specifications.

Extra-Large Recommended for very large printing (like murals) and fine publishing only
Not every item can be ordered at this size (none of the 3-D collections, for example). 

TIFF only
6000+ pixels, 300-600+ dpi
20 to 100+ MB file size

MNHS Reference Staff

reading room bookshelves

 

Gale Family Library
Minnesota Historical Society Library

Located on the Second Floor of the Minnesota History Center
345 West Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102

Library Hours:
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 4pm
Sunday to Wednesday: Closed
 

More Information on Visiting the Library

 

Contact Us:

651-259-3300

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Gale Family Library • Minnesota Historical Society • 345 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102-1906 • 651-259-3300
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