Slide Scanner - the Right Option

Looking for a slide scanner? That's us, if you're thinking of a service provider, but last week one potential client contacted me to say we're too cheap.

I can't remember the last time that happened, if at all, but in conversation a few interesting points emerged. In essence we covered the key dimensions of slide (or negative) scanning.

First, dpi - dots per inch. We scan slides at 4,000 dpi. In my opinion that's the maximum amount of data you can safely get out of such a tiny original. Second, file types. Most clients are more than happy with jpgs but some prefer TIFFs, we can handle both.

This, there's bit depth. As you know each dot is defined by a s et of three numeric values, one for each of the red, green or blue that makes up the colour the scanner sees at that point. Most scanners operate on the basis of there being 8 bits for each value, giving a range of 0 to 256, If however the scanner operates on a 16 bit scale the image will comprise a greater degree of definition in the precise colour value. If you can, try it, 16 bit colour is much better. But the data files are so much bigger, they take longer to load and manipulate. Finally there's the dynamic range the scanner can see. The greater the range the better able the scanner is to detect the subtle colour range in your images.

Back to our slide scanning client, if you want the best, what route is open to you today?

We love Nikon scanners, but sadly they are no longer in production. So you'll have to fight it out with the herd on eBay, and get hold os a used unit, with all that entails. take a look at the Epson range, for example the V750, including the bundled Silverfast software. Also capable of great results, available new, or possibly the H-P range. Both Nikon and Epson support hardware based dust and scratch reduction, which will save you hours retouching your scans.

But - and this is a big but - what if you want even better? Well the only other viable option I can see that ticks the new box and offers more than Nikon / Epson specs is the Imacon range from Hasselblad. Sadly I haven't used an Imacon but one of the best scans I have seen from a 35mm slide was made on an Imacon (using significant multiple exposure). it was truly breathtaking. But so too is the price of an Imacon scanner - around £20,000. Yes, if you want better than Nikon or Epson, dig deep in your pockets Mr Slide Scanner.