Negatives might seem like an old medium for storing photos, but they still work. Did you know you can scan a negative using a flatbed scanner and get excellent results? A flatbed scanner is a flexible tool, and there is more to its functionalities than you would expect.
Use this guide to learn more about scanning negatives with a flatbed scanner. We also discuss a neat little trick that you can use to process negatives with ease.
Ready to get started? Let us jump right into it!
Scanning a Negative Made Easy
Below are the steps involved in scanning using a negative using a flatbed scanner:
Step 1
Cut the negative you want to scan and clean it off gently to avoid damaging its structure. The best recommendation for you would be to use a microfiber cloth, as it’s perfect for delicate structures like negatives.
Step 2
Put the negative on the central section of the scanning bed, and ensure its sits correctly on the side section of the unit. Ensure the entire setup sits on a stable surface, and then put a piece of paper on the top side of the negative.
Step 3
Next, find a way to illuminate the negative, such that it “projects” the image, and all the details become visible to the naked eye. The best way to do this is to use a torch from your lamp and ensure it gets negative. Leave the lid of the scanner open, and switch on the light. Place it a few inches on top of the paper, and let the negative sit below.
Step 4
Start your scanning software, and find the image preview tab. You have to view the image beforehand to make a few adjustments to its structure and quality. For instance, you have to crop the image such that the content in your negative comes up. Proceed to scan again and crop it as required. Then, save the picture in a suitable format such as JPEG.
Step 5
The final step is to consider converting the negative image into a real-life image. You may have to perform an image conversion process by using photo editing software. Locate the “Positive Exposure” setting and click on “Invert Image” to complete the process. Remember to save your project once it’s finally complete.
Things to Consider When Scanning Negatives
First, you should realize that the traditional flatbed scanner is not suitable for content such as photo negatives. The reason is that such scanners are usually not backlit. Photo negatives require light to produce images, so you have to get creative with this process.
You will have to project a light, so the scanner can be able to detect the images. Using an ordinary scanner to process your images is likely to lead to poor quality and resolution levels. The tip for you, in this case, would be to use a silver cardstock to change the direction of the light from the scanner.
There are various helpful tips that you can use for scanning negatives, including:
- Avoid trying to straighten creases that exist on the image negatives. Doing this might lead to further scratching or even compromise the image detail of the negatives.
- Keep the images you have scanned on a cloud storage platform or your email. Use this approach as an excellent way to store digital photos.
- Select the resolution and photo format based on the way you hope to use the images. An excellent resolution level would be the 600dpi resolution rate and TIFF format for image enlargements. However, you can also use the 200dpi level if you plan on storing the images online.
Do I Really Need a Flatbed Scanner?
No, you don’t need a flatbed scanner because you have access to several other alternatives. You can use a simple DIY photography setup by using the backlighting technique. It’s an easy process that does not require any technical experience or resources.
You have to use a simple lamp behind a sheet of paper to bring out the image in the negatives. If you are feeling generous, you can also invest in a high-end printer that can scan negatives. But the DIY method should still work fine for scanning your negatives.
However, if you struggle with all these procedures, you can still find a camera processing firm. They should help you process the image and produce quality results that will impress than using traditional measures.
FAQ
What is the Best Way to Scan Negatives?
The best way to scan negatives would be to go to a photography service provider. They have the tools and resources needed to help you complete this process. Or you can learn how to use a flatbed scanner, especially if the negatives are still of quality.
What is Transparency Adapter in Scanner?
A transparency adapter refers to a tool that you can attach to a scanner to produce specialized light. The tool can scan 35mm and various other films, making it ideal for scanning negatives.
Is There an App to Scan Negatives?
Yes, there are many apps that you can use to scan negatives. However, the apps work as part of a set of resources that you plan on using the process. The apps only work to help with image editing and management.
How Can I View Old Negatives?
You can use the smartphone trick to view old negatives, and it’s highly effective. You have to get a phone with the “inversion feature” on the camera function. The inversion is a filter that converts your image, and you can then take a photograph for storage purposes.
Scanning a negative DIY is indeed possible, and you may need a few essential resources for this process. These can include a light, camera, silver stock paper, and a flatbed scanner. Or, you can also invest a printer that specializes in scanning negatives. Your final option is to contact a photography service for help with processing the images.