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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> scanner and film questions
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 07/03/2008 08:29:29 AM · #1
Hello boys and girls,

I recently got an slr from an old lady, and I made my first photos on film. It was the Yashica tl-super, I don't know if that rings any bells. Anyways, I had a few questions about shooting on film, and a scanner for my negatives. I was thinking of buying a scanner, but I don't know what to buy. I don't really want to spend loads of money on a super professional scanner, because I'm just playing with this, and I don't know how long I'm going to go through with the whole shooting on film thing. Is there a low-budget scanner that gives you ok quality? Or do you *have* to buy a really expensive one?

Also, I don't really know what kind of film to buy. I'm currently using Fujicolor C200 film, and I quite like it. But if I want my photos in black and white, should I buy B&W film? Or just scan them in, and turn them to B&W in Photoshop or something?

Thanks,

Peter :)

07/03/2008 08:39:06 AM · #2
For the b&w I would say try it out and see for yourself. You have the tools to do it so why not? Let us know if you do. One day i'll give it a shot myself, just out of curiosity.
 07/03/2008 08:41:02 AM · #3
Unless you have a backlog of film to scan, it may be easier and more economical to have them scanned. Costco will scan up to 40 pre-developed negatives to CD for $2.99 -- files are equivalent to shooting with a 6MP camera.

Otherwise, I'd recommend looking in one of the computer magazines or Consumer Reports for the latest review of scanners -- not too many people here have them, as almost everyone is shooting digitally already.
 07/03/2008 08:44:56 AM · #4
I use a fairly expensive canon scanner. I wish they were all taken with a digital camera instead of slides. Just shoot digital to begin with and forget scanning.
 07/03/2008 08:45:46 AM · #5
CNet is also a good source for reviews and prices.
Here's a link to their scanner reviews.
07/03/2008 08:54:20 AM · #6
I have an Epson Perfection 2400 which scans A4 and has a little thingy for slides or film. I jacked it up to 9600 dpi and had supper while it scanned, once. I must have had it less than ten and more than five years. If it's ok for your budget, I'd have no hesitation in recommending it, or perhaps a newer equivalent.

Or if you want more confusion...

Message edited by author 2008-07-03 09:06:34.
 07/03/2008 09:29:03 AM · #7
Originally posted by winkeh:
But if I want my photos in black and white, should I buy B&W film? Or just scan them in, and turn them to B&W in Photoshop or something?

Thanks,

Peter :)


If you're just going to use the images in digital mode, I agree with those who say use a DSLR. Your scans with any affordable scanner will pale to what a modern DSLR will give you. However, if you are going to stay in film, buy a B&W film. You'll get superior performance with prints made from that.
 07/03/2008 01:13:45 PM · #8
Peter,
I'm not familiar with the Yashica tl-super, so I'll assume that it's 35mm. I have used film scanners for a number of years, starting with the Nikon CoolScan 1000 and several flatbed scanners. The biggest problem with the scanners that are available for less than $1000US is lack of dynamic range. I presently use a Plustek 7200i that is suitable for recovering family pictures from old film and slides. It is a 7200 dpi scanner and comes with Silverfast software. If you have large backlog of negatives and slides that you want to save to digital, it is a viable alternative, but plan to have spend a lot of time doing it.
I'm not sure what services are available where you are, but as was said in an earlier reply, most stores that do film processing will also deliver pictures on disk at a minimal cost. This is a much better alternative, and their equipment has a much greater dynamic range than the lower cost scanners.

Paul,
07/03/2008 03:32:00 PM · #9
Having shot film not too long ago, I'd say if you want black and white, shoot black and white. The same does not apply for digital, though. If you need a good place to start, I'd recommend the Fuji Neopan 100 or 400. I shot some rolls of that near the end of my film days, and the contrast and tonality are wonderful.

As for films, I'd recommend (obviously) Fuji Velvia 50. I absolutely adore that film. If you're looking for softer colors, Kodak's Portra is nice. I've also had fun with Kodak Ultracolor. There's so much film out there, just try it all! That was one of the funnest parts of shooting film :)
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