Tips for Scanning

We know that many of you will be taking photos this holiday and receiving many in the mail, so we thought now would be a good time to offer some tips on scanning photos to store in your computer to preserve, and make CDs, scrapbooks, and slideshows.

No matter what scanner you own (Epson, HP, Canon), it should have come with software. (If you are planning to import your files into a program like iphoto (Mac users) or Picasa (PC users) you do not need to worry about the image being perfectly straight because you can straighten them later in these programs). Programs such as Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, iphoto, and Picasa allow users to correct and improve their imported images and documents. For beginners, iphoto and Picasa offer simple adjustments that are easy to navigate. (If you need photo software, Picasa is a free photo program made by google, download at http://picasa.google.com/.)

We use Epson Perfection scanners that are simple and straightforward. All that is necessary to make them work is to place your pictures on the glass plate (face down–like a copy machine), press the scan button, and follow the on-screen prompts. In some cases you may need to locate the software on your computer and open the application in order to import the files from your scanner to your computer.

Here are some step-by step tips for easy, efficient scanning with beautiful results:

• Make sure that your scanner is plugged in and connected to your computer (usually by a USB cord).

• Make sure the glass surface of your scanner is clean (i.e. no big flecks of dirt or dust).

• Place the photo or document you wish to scan face down on the scanner.

TIME SAVING TIP: If you know you will be scanning multiple photos, place as many as will fit onto the scanner and separate them out later once you have imported them into your computer.

• Press the “scan” button on your scanner.

There are usually several buttons on a scanner. For instance, one might give you the option to make a copy, another to email an image to someone, and a third is often for a simple scan. These are all useful options–for our purposes, press the one that says or displays “scan.”

• Follow onscreen instructions. You will be prompted to configure your settings.

Most scanning software will offer different modes (i.e. Auto Mode, Home, Professional). In general, if all you want to do is scan, choose the fully-automized option. With this option, the computer will identify what sort of document you are attempting to scan by scanning a preview. The instructions will then prompt you to enter a location to save the file before completing the scan.

• It is important to choose a location you will remember, such as a folder designated for scanned files, or a photo folder.

Once the photos are scanned you can make adjustments: crop, straighten, take out red-eye, re-touch to take our scratches or dust. Many basic photo programs, such as iphoto and Picasa, will allow you to manipulate the photos to change the lighting, color tone, and convert to black and white with very straightforward tools.

Now your photos are stored on your computer, and you can create CDs, slideshows, or print them later at home or give the files to a photo developer. Ta da!

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