"How To" Guides > Scanning Images
Scanning Photos and Documents
Tips for High Quality Photo and Document Scanning
The quality of a scan file is the result of the quality of the original image, scanning technique, selection of proper scan resolution, and selecting the proper file format and file compression levels. If you decide to perform some or all of your own scanning, the following are suggestions to improve your results.
□ If you are using moderate priced consumer equipment, carefully consider which portions of your collection(s) are suitable to be scanned in-house. For example, if you intend to use an all-in-one machine that has a scan rating of 600 PPI, it may be perfectly fine for photo prints. However, your slide collection may be best served by sending it off to a photo shop or service that has higher resolution slide scanning equipment.
□ It is often better to control the scanning
process through image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop Elements 7
□ Proper alignment and orientation is important. Scanner or image editing software will often adjust alignment, and you can change an incorrect orientation. However, each time the image is rotated, there is some risk of loss of image detail.
□ Take the time to clean the surface of the scanner and the object to be scanned. Dust and other blemishes between the object and the sensor can be captured as unwanted image detail.
□ Higher resolutions may actually accent some blemishes. Therefore, for some images with scratches and other handling marks, lower scan resolutions may actually improve results.
□ Select document type carefully when offered alternatives, as instructing your equipment to scan a black & white document as a color photograph will result in a much larger file without the benefit of additional detail.
□ Always stop to consider the pixel per inch setting, as this is the essence of your scan, and equipment or software defaults can vary.
□ If your scanner has the ability to scan multiple images, the time to be saved is well worth the effort to learn how to use the capability.
□ As you experiment and gain experience, your scanning results will improve. Therefore, select a few different types of images and experiment. Import the images using your image editing software, do some crops, change aspect ratios, save in different formats and look at file sizes. Once you are comfortable with your choices and knowledge, scanning will be much faster.
