Frequently Asked Questions for Negative Scanning

ScanCafe answers a few of your questions

ScanCafe receives a number of negative scanning questions, and we have posted a list of TOP FAQs here for negative scanning. These frequently asked questions will be helpful, but feel free to send us a message if you have additional negative scanning questions.

1. Is it better to scan the print photo or the negative?

It is always better to scan the negative because it is usually in better condition, and the scanner can produce a digital image at a higher dpi resolution. Furthermore, it is cheaper to scan negatives than photos, and you get to keep the photo displayed in your home during the scanning process. That said, we do offer great photo scanning and slide scanning solutions.

2. What is resolution or dpi and which dpi should I choose?

Resolution defines the clarity and quality of the digital image. It is better to have a high dpi resolution rather than a low dpi resolution. This is true up to a certain point. For negatives, the highest dpi recommended is 3000 dpi. Our scanners can go up to 4000 dpi, but the resolution becomes too high and you will start to see the grain in the film. The other benefit of high resolution is that it is easier to complete photo restoration when the image is scanned at a higher resolution.

3. Do you scan APS film? Can I do it on my own?

We currently do not scan APS film because we have found that the Nikon APS loaders are prone to failure after scanning 35-40 APS rolls. We may offer APS scanning in the Fall of 2008 if we can find better APS scanners in the future.

4. How should I pack my negatives?

See our negative packing page for shipping tips.

5. How can I track my images?

We have door-to-door package tracking through UPS and our site. More information can be found on our logistics page.

6. Can you tell me more about your India Operations?

Yes. See pictures and higlights on our India operations page.

7. How do I know which side of the negative to scan?

Theoretically, it is very easy, but practically, it is very difficult. You need to scan the side that has the photographic emulsion. This emulsion side is usually less glossy. However, it takes a long time to figure this out. The best option for telling which side is which is to look at the numbering scheme on the negative. When using a negative film scanner, align the negative such that you can read the numbering scheme. You are now looking at the opposite side of the emulsion.

8. My black and white scans appear very dusty and scratched. Why?

Black and White film has an emulsion of silver halide which is prone to scratches. While these scratches on the negative are not visible to the naked eye, you might find plenty of scratches in the scan.

9. Can I use Kodak Digital ICE while scanning black and white negatives?

Never! The infrared light that detects dust and scratches is not compatible with the silver halide emulsion on black and white negatives. If you scan with ICE, the digital image will look "silvery" and out of focus. The only solution is to disable ICE and manually restore the B&W scan at a later time using a clone stamping tool such as in Adobe Photoshop. However, using clone stamping requires a lot of practice. If you have more questions, feel free to contact our customer support team, and we would be happy to answer your questions.