How to choose a slide scanner for 35 mm films

Many of us still have photos taken with old cameras and recorded on 35 mm film. Today there are workshops that are engaged in converting such drives into digital form. However, you can do this yourself using a slide scanner. Which device to choose - read on...

What to look for when choosing a slide scanner for 35 mm films

1. Optical resolution. The standard film width is 35 mm, and the image fixed on it has an even smaller format. Therefore, the optical resolution must be at least 2400 dpi. The optimal solution would be to purchase equipment with a characteristic of 4800 or 5400 dpi.
2. Availability of CCD (CCD). This characteristic builds the depth of field of the image. The presence of one CCD line will ensure high-quality digitization only from the third pass of the negative through the scanner. In order not to waste extra time, purchase a device with a CCD matrix that can convert photos into electronic form in one go.
3. Dynamic range or optical density. In order for photos to have optimal transitions in color gamuts, choose scanners with a range of this indicator, ranging from 3.2 D to 3.6 D.
4. Color rendition. An image converted into a computer value system must be based on 24 bits (colors).However, you should purchase models with an indicator of 42 or 48, which will reduce the influence of noise on the picture.
5. Hardware. They are necessary to improve the quality of the final image. Digital ICE will help get rid of dust and scratches on the film, and Digital ROC will help eliminate grain and restore the color of the picture. If these two software components or their packaged version (Digital ICE4 Advanced) are included in the hardware, you will be treated to remarkable image quality.

Which slide scanners for 35 mm films are considered the best?

1. Epson Perfection V750 Pro is one of the budget, yet high-quality and efficient models. System type – CCD, optical resolution – 6400×9600 dpi, maximum dynamic range – 4 D, Digital ICE technology.
2. Plustek OpticFilm 8100 is a professional slide scanner with a high optical density of 3.6 D. Optical resolution - 7200, technologies - SilverFast NegaFix and Multi-Exposure.

These brands are the most suitable for scanning film at home and professionally. Their model range varies depending on price and characteristics, but the quality of the equipment does not change.

Now you know that recovering photos from film is easy and simple today! The main thing is to choose a device with the necessary characteristics and use it correctly!