Flatbed vs. Film Scanners

Both flatbed and film scanners are very handy photographic tools for converting conventional film based images into digital media. The results are normally quite good for both and a scan taken from a well taken image on a good quality scanner will outshine the best digital camera on the market today. The reason for this is scanners can achieve much higher resolutions than cameras.

There are a lot of people out there struggling with the question of sticking with film or "going digital". However scanners can become a very happy medium. There are two types of scanners that are widely available to the consumer, flatbed scanners and film scanners. There are a few other designs but these are the two most popular. The flatbed scanner is a good multi-purpose device that can do more than just scan photos. The film scanner can only be used for scanning film.

Flatbed scanners are cheaper, more flexible and more readily available. Some even have film scanning capabilities. But for the best reproduction, the quality of a decent film scanner cannot be matched by even the best flatbed scanner. There is one main reason for this;

Scanning a print is only a copy of a copy. The film is the original image and any print from it is only a copy. The final outcome of the digital image will depend on the quality of the printing as well.

Film scanners are not as flexible as other scanners. Every model is designed only for one and sometimes two film formats. Obviously the most popular film format is 35mm and some scanners will also accept APS film. There is a range of film scanners for one or both these formats and all will scan negative as well as the superior quality slide film. These are more expensive than flatbed scanners but there are plenty aimed at the consumer market that won't break the bank. However for the medium format enthusiast the average price tag of a film scanner shoots to the stars. Nearly all Medium and large format film scanners are still aimed exclusively at the professional market.

Flatbed vs Film

We have outlined the benefits of a true film scanner over a flatbed or dual purpose scanner. The image shows the difference in quality between the two.

• A - Full size image.
• B - flatbed scan sectional enlargement.
• C - Film scan sectional enlargement.

The print the sectional enlargement was taken from was an enprint processed by a local commercial processor. It was scanned using a standard flatbed scanner model HP Scanjet 2200c.

The full frame image (A) and sectional enlargement (C) were scanned using a Minolta Dimage Scan Dual III film scanner.

The most obvious difference between the two is the color balance. This is due to the way the photo was printed. A closer inspection will prove that shadow and highlight areas are handled much more successfully with the film scanner. Also sharpness is marginally better from the film scanner.

School of Photography.com Full Length Courses

If you want to learn more about all kinds of photography, take a look at our complete full length courses. All are tutor assisted with examples, full text and projects.

• Basic Photography Course For the beginner, this tutor assisted level 1 course assumes you have little or no knowledge of photography. Suitable for both digital and film users.
• Digital Photography Course This course shows how to capture digital images, use manipulation programs to add effects and enhancements, and print and display your work. Includes image restoration.
• Glamour Photography Course This level 2 course assumes you know your way around a camera. It takes you further with studio lighting setups, home studio, model portfolios, posing guide, multiple lighting guide, model releases, make up and more.
• Freelance Photography Course This level 2 course is essential if you want to make money with your camera. Imagine being paid to be do something you love doing, well you can now with School of Photography.com.
• Black and White Photography Course Have you ever wanted to learn how to develop film at home? Then go on to make your own prints using an enlarger in a darkroom? Then this level 2 course is the right start for you.
• Landscape Photography Course Find out how to improve your landscapes with this level 2 course. Packed full of illustrations, examples, full text and projects.

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