Scanning prints

[ChrisLumix]

By trial and error, I have found the best settings to obtain the best quality scans from an original print. I use a very old Canon flatbed scanner (N670U) in conjunction with Photoshop CS2, but the general principles should apply to any scanner and software.

 

1. Assuming your scanner has a clean glass and is calibrated, choose the following settings:

• a high DPI resolution (I use 600 dpi)
• Unsharp Mask OFF
• Dust and scratches OFF 
• Colour matching to your computer ON
• All other settings DEFAULT 

2. The scan will be LARGE, lacking sharpness, and slightly flat looking. Use the following in Photoshop (or equivalent), the amounts depending on your own taste and the image in question :

• apply Auto Levels (Fade by a suitable % if the effect is too much) 
• go into Shadows/Highlights : Shadows can usually be left at 0, but reduce Highlights to taste (this will increase contrast and subdue overdone highlights to at least the level on the original print)
• adjust Colour if necessary (original prints, especially from commercial labs, often leave a lot to be desired!)
• apply Filters/Sharpen/Unsharp Mask (100%, 3 pixels, Threshold 0)
• if necessary, apply Filters/Noise/Dust & Scratches (1 pixel)
• a final application of Filters/Sharpen/Smart Sharpen if necessary (100%, 1 pixel)

3. Finally, reduce the image size by around half (absolute size, i.e. the pixel count along either height or length.) Any remaining dust visible on the original scan will usually effectively disappear when the size is reduced.

 

Please note : wiping your prints and the scanner glass with a micro fibre cloth, will NOT eliminate all dust! Hence the references to it above. And Photoshop's sharpening and dust handling is far superior to most scanner software, which is why you should turn the scanner's settings off, and use Photoshop instead.

[bugmeister]

They are useful tips, and although other scanners may behave a bit differently it's just what is needed... a starting point!

 

Have a virtual beer, sir