Are you looking to buy a new photo scanner? If so, this article is definitely for you. To begin with we will compare the difference between normal scanners and dedicated photo scanners. Then we will talk about the main features that a photo scanner should have. Then we will look and the major makes of photo scanners.
Normal Scanners vs Picture Scanners
First of all, you must decide what type of scanner you need. 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, 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 Decent Photo 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.
· Scanning 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 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 Best Photo Scanner Makes & Their Products
Of course, there are many brands out there that make scanners, but here are the main photo scanner brands:
· SVP: $39-$170. A large collection of dedicated photograph film scanners at exceptionally reasonable prices.
· Epson: $100-$2,500. A great collection of products spread across a particularly wide price range.
· Pacific Image Electronics: $60-$500. A small selection of dedicated photo film scanners.
· Nikon: $200-$6,000. A small selection of dedicated photo film scanners, spread across an especially wide price range.
· HP: $38-$178. A small variety of scanners at good prices.
Author Resource:
Still not sure which image scanner to get? Visit Photo Negative Scanner where you will find reviews of all the top scanners, including the CanoScan 8800F Scanner