Chapter 3: Scanning Film

Scanned images cannot turn out better than the original film which was scanned. Every defect on the film will be recorded by the scanner as an image detail. It can be frustrating to start with an image that appears satisfactory as a 4" × 6" print, only to find noticeable image defects when the same image is
viewed on the monitor.

One must check whether such defects are caused by the scan or originate from the film. Quite often a poor original is to blame. If an image is scanned at 4000 dpi and viewed at full size, even the smallest defects become visible. The film should be checked with a good loupe. In many cases the film is fine, but the scanner is poorly focused. Even the best scanning method cannot compensate for a blurry original on film.

Storing film

Always handle your slides and negatives with care. You cannot fully compensate for defects in the scanning process.

1Home (ALT-H).
2Find-a-Scanning-Service (ALT-I).
3Buying used Scanners (ALT-U).
4Renting-a-Scanner (ALT-R).
5Scanbook (ALT-S)
- 5.1Extract (ALT-E)
  - 5.1.1Preface (ALT-P).
  - 5.1.2Table of Contents (ALT-T).
  - 5.1.3Chapter 3: Scanning Film
    - 5.1.3.13.1 Handling Film (ALT-3).
    - 5.1.3.2-Crucial Storage (ALT-C).
    - 5.1.3.3-Physically Removing Dust (ALT-Y).
    - 5.1.3.4-Finding the Emulsion Side (ALT-N).
    - 5.1.3.5-Handling Film Strips (ALT-L).
    - 5.1.3.6-Destroy Originals after Scan? (ALT-O).
    - 5.1.3.73.2 Film Types (ALT-2).
    - 5.1.3.8-Color Negatives (ALT-G).
    - 5.1.3.9-Color Slides.
    - 5.1.3.10-Kodachrome Slides (ALT-K).
    - 5.1.3.11-Black and White Negatives (ALT-W).
    - 5.1.3.12-Ideal Film for Scanning (ALT-M).
    - 5.1.3.13-Slide Mounts.
    - 5.1.3.14-Granularity of 35mm Kodak Film (ALT-5).
    .
  - 5.1.4Chapter 4: File Formats (ALT-4).
  .
- 5.2Rezensionen (ALT-Z).
- 5.3German Edition.
- 5.4Sold out editions.
- 5.5Update and Errata.
.
6Letters to the editor.
7Frequently asked Questions (ALT-Q).
8Hacks+Tweaks for Scanners.
9Very useful links (ALT-V).
10Sitemap.