Scanning negatives and filmstrips – high-resolution digital copies from archives

While processing old films, I encountered the need to obtain a high-quality image with good resolution. This is extremely necessary for processing. In case we need to scan our own films, it is not a problem to cut the film and scan it on scanners with backlight.

Since not every film can be cut and scanned, you need a device that allows you to insert the entire film. If you need to scan 600 to 900 frames, you don't have weeks to do it. Today's photo technology offers perfect resolution. Signal-to-noise ratio and speed.

For scanning, I use the device that you can see in the pictures. It consists of a Canon EOS 5D MK III. As a lens, I use an old Zeis 2.8/50 lens with adapters. The fact that it is old does not matter, even though it has a softer drawing. Its advantage is that when used through adapters, it draws an image of satisfactory quality, even in the corners. Moreover, the field is only slightly distorted. I had the lens stopped down to 5.6 during the photo shoot. I used a wire shutter for the photo shoot. Behind the scanning device, I had several layers of tracing paper, which was illuminated by artificial light. I recommend turning off all ambient light.

Scanning procedure

When working with film, use white gloves. You will recognize them from the archives when leafing through old documents. Never handle the film with bare hands. If the film is dusty, blow it off with a balloon. If it is heavily soiled, use a brush with fine bristles. Do not wipe the film with a cloth or white gloves. This will cause scratches. Regarding the film guide. The film is bent into an arc in the picture, but during the photo shoot, when you rotate the film spool, the film straightens naturally. If you are using an autofocus lens, turn it off and focus manually. You will not need to refocus.