Flatbed Scanner
I'm in the market for a flatbed scanner. Something that is OS compatible, able to scan 8x10 black 'n white and color pictures, and 35mm negatives. Quality of scan is important. Appreciate su...
Forum Discussion
Having digitized over 10,000 images in many different formats, I have a few opinions on this topic. A flat bed scanner is fine for large prints (i.e. 8x10) and even medium-to-large format film (6x6 and larger). Flatbed scanners are not the best tool for scanning 35mm film. A dedicated film scanner will run circles around even the best flatbed for 35mm film.
That said, there is a HUGE difference between scanning a print and scanning the negative of the same image. The best photo papers will only reproduce about 300 samples per inch of information compared to 7,000 samples per inch and more for a dedicated film scanner. The color depth and dynamic range are also much better scanning the film than the print.
I use VueScan for both of my scanners rather than the software provided with the scanners. VueScan is updated regularly with new drivers and features. This eliminates trying to stay on top of compatibility issues with drivers and software from different sources as operating systems are updated.
Rob
That said, there is a HUGE difference between scanning a print and scanning the negative of the same image. The best photo papers will only reproduce about 300 samples per inch of information compared to 7,000 samples per inch and more for a dedicated film scanner. The color depth and dynamic range are also much better scanning the film than the print.
I use VueScan for both of my scanners rather than the software provided with the scanners. VueScan is updated regularly with new drivers and features. This eliminates trying to stay on top of compatibility issues with drivers and software from different sources as operating systems are updated.
Rob
