The scanning process is much easier if you know
beforehand how the image will be used. A
proper scan is the best starting point for editing
a print or negative, if you’re still using film cam-
eras. If the final result is to be realistic, the scan
should produce an image as close to realism as
possible. If the final result is to be a colorful
departure from reality, the scan should be as
close to the intended colors as possible.
Before you scan an image, you also need to
know how it will be presented. Will the final
image be viewed on a Web site or printed in a
publication? Will it be exhibited as a fine print, and if so, how large will it be? A
digital image has no real physical size until you print it or show it on a monitor.
Potentially, it might be printed or displayed in many sizes, but if you select the
wrong settings, you might end up with a sub-par image. Your scanning decisions
must be based on both the physical size you want and the characteristics of the
printer or display device.72 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TODIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
FIGURE 6.1
Scanners enable
you to scan in
negatives and
prints for your
digital dark-
room.tip
Scanners capable of scan-
ning negatives are much
more valuable to aspiring
photographers. Scans of neg-
atives and slides are much
better for editing.