drum scanning
Drum scanning medium format color negatives
Drum scans are made on a Howtek Hi-Resolve 8000 drum scanner running Aztek DPL Professional software for maximum image quality. The Howtek scans up to 8000dpi and can scan film sizes up to 8” x 10”. Unlike CCD scanners (Imacon, Nikon Coolscan, or flatbed scanners) the Howtek can scan the full frame plus film rebate, sprocket holes, or irregularly shaped film (for example, overlapping Holga exposures).
A high quality drum scan records all the detail in the film throughout the tonal range. It resolves detail in the highlights and shadows that machine prints or bulk scanning does not. For example, windows or sky that were blown out (or shadows that were blocked up) in inexpensive scans will likely have more detail in a drum scan. This allows for the artist or printmaker to interpret the image, aesthetically and artistically, with adjustments for cropping, density, saturation, contrast, etc.
After scanning, all images are opened, checked for sharpness, and cloned for dust or scan artifacts (i.e. air bubbles). We scan to retain all the information in the film, which allows you to make the best possible print when preparing your image for print. Highlights are not clipped and shadows remain open. Density and appropriate contrast are set. Files are burned to DVD or on client-supplied hard drive or USB stick.
Drum Scanning Pricing - 35mm film
| Scan Size - 35mm film | Maximum Print Size* | Price |
| Small 4000dpi | 13" x 20" | $35 |
| Large 8000dpi | 26" x 38" | $50 |
| * Print size for files printed at 300dpi. Larger prints are possible if printed at a lower resolution. | ||
Drum Scanning Pricing - 120mm film
| Scan Size - 120mm film | Maximum Print Size* | Price |
| Small 4000dpi | 30" x 30" | $50 |
| Large 8000dpi | 60" x 60" | $80 |
| * Print size for files printed at 300dpi. Larger prints are possible if printed at a lower resolution. | ||
Drum Scanning Pricing - 4" x 5" film
| Scan Size - 4" x 5" film | Maximum Print Size* | Price |
| Small 4000dpi | 26" x 32" | $75 |
| Large 8000dpi | 52" x 65" | $100 |
| * Print size for files printed at 300dpi. Larger prints are possible if printed at a lower resolution. | ||
Drum Scanning Pricing - 8" x 10" film
| Scan Size - 8" x 10" film | Maximum Print Size* | Price |
| Small1200dpi | 30" x 40" | $75 |
| Large 2000dpi | 52" x 65" | $100 |
| * Print size for files printed at 300dpi. Larger prints are possible if printed at a lower resolution. | ||
For more information, click here for our Scanning FAQ.
