If you're looking to buy a new photo scanner then this is the article you need to read. We will start by comparing standard scanners to photo scanners. We will then take a look at some features to keep an eye out for. We will then finish off with a look at the main brands and their product ranges.
Normal Scanners vs Image Scanners
First things first, you need to decide on what type of scanner it is that you want. For example, are you looking for a general multipurpose scanner which can scan anything? Or are you looking more for an actual photo scanner, designed specifically for the task of scanning photo films and negatives? Or maybe you want something that is in between the two?
There is a lot to be said for having a general multipurpose scanner, because you can use it for scanning any kind of document. However, with a dedicated photo scanner, you will get a machine that is perfectly suited to getting the best out of your photographs, with excellent image resolution, highly sensitive color, slide and photo negative holders, as well as many other photography-specific features and functions.
Features of a Good Photograph Scanner
There are a whole host of features that your photo scanner may come with, but here are some important ones to be on the look out for:
· Film & Transparency Scanning: is the scanner designed specifically for scanning films and transparencies? Check whether it is able to scan your medium of choice, whether it be film or transparancies.
· Resolution: a good high resolution scanner is the the Canon CanoScan 9000F. This has 9600 x 9600 color resolution together with a 48-bit color depth and over 281 trillion colors.
· Photo Restoration: if the photos you are scanning are quite old, it's great to be able to quickly retouch any blemishes or scratches as you go.
· Photo Software: once you've scanned in your photos, you want to be able to view and edit them on your computer, so it's useful if the scanner comes with some good photo editing software.
The Major Picture Scanner Brands & Their Products
Obviously, there are a lot of brands that make scanners, but these are the top brands of photo scanners:
· SVP: $39-$170. A large series of dedicated photography film scanners at extremely reasonable prices.
· Epson: $100-$2,500. A good variety of products spread across a very wide price range.
· Pacific Image Electronics: $60-$500. A small selection of dedicated photo film scanners.
· Nikon: $200-$6,000. A small choice of dedicated photo film scanners, spread across an extremely wide price range.
· HP: $38-$178. A small selection of scanners at decent prices.
Author Resource:
Still unsure which image scanner to purchase? Check out Photo Scanner Reviews where you will find reviews of all the top scanners, including the CanoScan 8800F Scanner
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