If you're looking to buy a new photo scanner then this is the article you need to read. To begin with we will compare the difference between normal scanners and dedicated photo scanners. We will then take a look at some features to keep an eye out for. Then we will look and the major makes of photo scanners.
Ordinary Scanners vs Picture 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?
The advantages of owning a good all-round scanner is that you can use it not just for photos but for scanning anything. On the other hand, a dedicated photo scanner will be designed specifically for the purpose of scanning photos. This will ensure you get the best quality digital images from your photo films and negatives, and will come with specific functions for getting the most out of your photos.
Features of a Good Picture 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 it made specifically for scanning non-digital photographic media? Check to see what fittings it comes with and whether it is able to scan your chosen medium.
· Resolution: a good high resolution scanner is the the Canon CanoScan 9000F, which has a maximum 9600 x 9600 color resolution with a 48-bit color depth and over 281 trillion colors.
· Photo Restoration: if you are scanning old photo negatives, then it's useful to be able to instantly retouch any imperfections along the way.
· Photo Software: you don't want to just scan your photos and then leave them on your computer in their scanned state. You want to be able to easily edit your photos as well, and that's where bundled photo software is extremely useful.
The Number 1 Image Scanner Brands & Their Product Ranges
Of course, there are many brands out there that make scanners, but here are the main photo scanner brands:
· SVP: $39-$170. A broad assortment of dedicated photography film scanners at extremely reasonable prices.
· Epson: $100-$2,500. A good selection of products spread across a particularly wide price range.
· Pacific Image Electronics: $60-$500. A small assortment 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 great prices.
Author Resource:
Still undecided which image scanner to get? Go to Flatbed Photo Scanner where you will find reviews of all the top scanners, including the Canon 8800F