Scanning for Different Media

Scanner processes and applications are not complex. A scanner functions like a copier, but rather than feeding paper it transmits the scanned object to your computer. What makes the scanner far superior to a copier is that once the object has been transmitted to your computer, you can digitally alter it.

Color scanning

Although scanning color pictures is fun, it can be quite challenging. You may not always get the same detail and quality as the original, which is always a disappointment. One of the first things to address when scanning anything is the proper resolution, or dots per inch (dpi) setting.

Most software for scanning permits you to choose from a range of settings, generally between 75 and 6000 dpi. Individual settings are dependant on the quality of your scanner. In general, better quality scans result from higher resolution, (or greater dpi). This also results in the creation of a larger file. An average 400 dpi color scan can be as big as two megabytes, compared to a 100 dpi black and white scan which is between 50 – 100 kilobytes. In addition, you will see a big difference in the smoothness of the color shading. The outline, or edges, of the scanned picture become more irregular and coarser when using a lower resolution setting.

The benefit of scanning at a lower resolution is that the file is not as large, so it is easily attached to an e-mail or saved to a disk. A 400 dpi file can be slow to transfer, and is too big to fit on a single disk. However, the disadvantage is that lower resolution creates a poorer quality image. The photo images found on the web are usually scanned at 72 dpi. Although these images look good on-screen, they will not print very clearly on a color printer.

Black & White Scanning

Now, when you are scanning black and white photocopies or text, you don’t have to be as concerned about resolution. However, you do need to be concerned with contrast. In some instances it may be necessary to darken the black or grays in order to add contrast to a white background. If you find that adjusting the contrast has resulted in magnifying scratches or particles, don’t panic. Once you have completed scanning, you can use Photoshop to increase or decrease contrast.

Another factor to consider is the quality of the original you are going to scan. A scanned picture can never be better quality than the original. Furthermore, you have to be aware that there are often minor defects, scratches or imperfections that will be enhanced when scanned. Make sure the scanner glass is clean, and double-check the picture for any wrinkles, dust particles or smears. These measures will help insure a good quality scan.

The best thing to do when scanning different kinds of media is to experiment. Once you are comfortable with the basic principles of scanning, you’ll begin to see more and more ways of applying them. You may even think of a few new tricks of your own.

Most average scanners can capture almost anything that fits on the glass, so feel free to play around with scanning objects other than documents and photos. Don’t be discouraged if not every attempt is successful. Scanning techniques can sometimes take years to refine, and every attempt brings you a step closer to mastering the techniques of scanning.