Scanning negatives

Three ways to turn negatives into digital files.

Film negatives and slides on a light box
  • Lab scans: easiest; ask for resolution options when you send film.
  • Flatbed scanner with film holder: affordable and fine for sharing online.
  • Camera scanning: photograph negatives with a digital camera and macro lens over an even light source, then invert the image in software. Fast and high-quality once set up.

Tips

  • Clean dust off negatives with a blower before scanning.
  • Keep negatives flat and level to stay in focus.
  • Store negatives in archival sleeves, away from heat and damp.