Scanner Tipsfor ScanographyFor successful scanography, the basic scanner tips are quite simple:
Control the LightQuite often a scanner with the top up gives you the black background you're looking for, because of the limited Depth of Field. However, ambient light can interfere. For best results turn off any lights in the room. Be sure the bright light of the computer monitor is not facing the scanner and be aware of light from windows (even in adjacent rooms). If you still have a problem drape the scanner with dark fabric. The ambient light is eliminated and you will get the black background. The best fabric to use is one with a 'velvety' texture. Felt also works very nicely. Darkness is not what makes Scanner Magic work, it is what gives you sharply focused subjects with the rich black background. Patri Feher, an experienced scanographer, scans plein aire (outdoors)on her patio and has beautiful blue sky backgrounds!
Scanner Tips for BackgroundsBackgrounds are only limited by your imagination. FABRIC- By draping the fabric directly over the subject, you will change the background color. I placed a piece of red velvet-like fabric over this monstera flower.
In the following scanner photography, I held a yellow file folder over the toy frogs while the scanner did it's magic!
BOXES - Another way to resolve the light problem is to use a box. I often use a cardboard box and just hold it in place. When using boxes, be sure they are deep enough that the bottom of the box does not become the background! Brown corrugation is not particularly attractive. If you are a frequent scanner, you may want to build a box to fit the exact size of your scanner bed.
Positioning Things to ScanAlways remember to place items "face down". At first this may be a little confusing. Just think of it as if the camera is looking up from inside the scanner! Placing soft items such as flowers may take some special adjusting. Scan and look at how the petals are positioned. Then reposition if necessary. Sometimes an item will look best if it is not placed directly on the glass. Hang them from a high point that will not show in the scan. I tried attaching items to fabric and inside boxes, but it was almost impossible to adjust them. Now, I have a small table (picked up at the flea market) that straddles the scanner. I attach things to the underneath side of the table with string wire, tape and/or tacks. Items must reach very close to the glass (almost touching) in order for this to work.
Clean Your ScannerDust is insidious. Turn off your scanner and cover it when not in use. Where do the dust and dirt come from?
A dusty or dirty scanner will result in hours of digital darkroom cleanup! Even the smallest piece will show and degrade the quality of your scans. A dust free cloth will help keep the scanner bed clean. For more Scanner Tips on cleaning before, during and after Scanography see
Scanner Cleaning page.
Accidents HappenAvoid sharp, heavy or pointed objects. Or at least be very careful if you do use them! They may easily scratch your flatbed scanner glass. Unfortunately, I have a tiny pock mark on my glass, fortunately it's in the corner. It is the result of the day I thought driftwood would make a great scan. A simple sheet of acetate would probably have saved the glass.
Experiment!There are many ways to experiment with movement, light and backgrounds. The effects range from weird and strange - to stunning! Although I've chosen not to include them on this site, don't be surprised to find bizarre faces and other body parts on the internet. Apply these scanner tips for scanography and keep your eyes open for your own new ideas. Play with your scanner, you may be surprised with your creative results.
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