Scanning is a straightforward process, but getting high-quality digital copies of your photos and documents requires a bit of planning and attention to detail. Here are the most important basics every beginner should know before starting their scanning journey.

Plan Ahead

• Decide how you’ll use your scans: Are they for printing, sharing online, or archiving? This will determine the settings you use, such as resolution and file format.
• Organize your originals. Clean photos and documents to remove dust or smudges before scanning for the best results.

The Scanning Process: Step-by-Step

1. Place the Original on the Scanner
   • Lay your photo or document face down on the scanner bed. Make sure it’s flat and aligned with the edges for an even scan.
2. Open Your Scanning Software
   • Use the software that came with your scanner or a program like Adobe Photoshop or Epson Scan 2.
   • Select the appropriate mode (e.g., “Photo Mode” for pictures, “Document Mode” for text).
3. Preview and Adjust
   • Use the preview function to check the scan area. Crop to scan only what you need, which saves storage space and time.
   • Adjust brightness and contrast if necessary to improve legibility and color accuracy.
4. Set the Resolution
   • For web or email: 96 dpi (dots per inch) is usually enough.
   • For printing: At least 300 dpi is recommended.
   • For enlargements or archival: Go higher, but remember higher resolution means larger file sizes.
5. Choose File Format
   • Photos: JPEG for sharing, TIFF or PNG for higher quality and archiving.
   • Documents: PDF is best for multi-page documents or text, but PNG or TIFF works for single pages.
6. Scan and Save
   • Name your files clearly and use folders to stay organized.
   • Save to a location you’ll remember, and back up your scans to cloud storage or an external drive.

Pro Tips for Better Scans

• Do a Test Scan: Try scanning a sample page or photo first to check your settings and make adjustments before scanning a large batch.
• Adjust the Lid: Make sure the scanner lid is closed tightly to avoid unwanted light and blurry scans. For thick originals, gently press down or use a book to ensure good contact.
• Handle Delicate Photos Carefully: Avoid using high-speed auto-feed scanners for fragile or mounted photos, as they can be damaged easily.
• Edit After Scanning: Use basic editing tools to crop, rotate, or enhance your images as needed after scanning.

Common Scanning Settings Comparison