Video:Tips for Buying a Photo Scanner

Transcript:Tips for Buying a Photo Scanner

Hi, I'm Jacob Taxis for About.com. In this video, you will receive tips for buying a photo scanner.

Consider Resolution of Photo Scanner

A photo scanner is a specialized type of scanner which captures high-quality images of your photos, slides or negatives. Prior to your purchase, determine what form your photos will take after you scan them. If the photos will ultimately remain on the computer for internet and email use, you can choose a lower resolution photo scanner. If you plan on printing out the images, you will need to buy a high resolution photo scanner. Resolution is described in terms of DPI; this is the number of dots per inch. The higher the dpi, the higher the image quality.

Formats of Images for Photo Scanners

To aid in your selection process, you'll want to define what type of format you'll be scanning. Formats include: photo prints, 35mm negatives, and 35mm slides. Look for a scanner that will accommodate the format or formats you're going to be using. If you're scanning prints, take notice of the maximum scan size. Some scanners will allow for multiple piece-by-piece scans of a large image to later be joined together through photo editing. Oftentimes, photo editing software is included in the box for photo restoration and alteration. If you plan to use the software, make sure it is compatible with your computer system.

Computer Connections With Photo Scanners

It is important to note what type of connections your computer has available. Some photo scanners connect with a firewire cable for fast data transferal. Be aware that not all computers are equipped with a firewire port. Largely, photo scanners connect via USB cable; this is a common port on most computers. Scanner bit depth relates to the number of colors that can be captured and processed by that particular scanner. There is a bit depth figure for color and for grayscale. The higher the bit depth number, the more color or shade variants you will have in your scan, resulting in a higher image quality.

Price of Photo Scanners

Photo scanners range in price from about $100 to $500. Determine what features you're looking for in a photo scanner and compare the options. Typically, the more features a scanner offers, the higher the price. So it's important to know what you need and don't need. Although photo scanners are expensive and take up space while serving only one function, they offer an effective way to clearly and beautifully digitize your photos, negatives and slides. It is a great option for those who want to restore old photos, make online albums, or create photo books. If you have hundreds of images to scan, consider purchasing a photo scanner with a feed to speed up the process. Or go online to find a company who will professionally digitize your images for you.

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