The Beginner’s Guide to Scanning Your Documents and Photos

One of the first things I did when organizing my collection was research the best practices for scanning documents and photos. I attended numerous classes, researched extensively, and determined some essential guidelines.

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Choosing the Right Resolution

Scanning at 600 DPI (dots per inch) for a standard-sized photo or document provides a high-quality digital copy. However, if you’re working with smaller pictures, you’ll want to scan at a higher resolution, around 1200 DPI, to ensure you capture all the details.

TIFF vs. JPEG: Which Format to Use?

The choice between TIFF and JPEG formats depends on how you use your scanned images. Here’s a breakdown:

• TIFF: This format does not compress your file, meaning it retains full quality over time. It’s ideal for archiving or if you plan to edit the image extensively.

• JPEG: This format compresses the image, resulting in a smaller file size. While it’s still high-quality, repeated editing and saving can cause quality loss over time.

When I scan my photos, I typically save everything as JPEGs unless I need to edit them. In that case, I save the original as a TIFF and edit a JPEG copy, ensuring I always have an unaltered version.

Getting Started with Scanning

When I first began digitizing my collection, I used a flatbed scanner. Although slow, it allowed me to work at my own pace, scanning photos and documents during my free time. If you're starting, here are some key recommendations:

1. Invest in a good flatbed scanner – It ensures high-quality scans without damaging fragile materials.

2. Use a resolution of at least 600 DPI, ensuring your scans are clear and detailed.

3. Choose your file format wisely – JPEG for everyday use, TIFF for archival purposes.

4. Organize your files with meaningful names. 

Final Thoughts

Starting your digitization journey can feel overwhelming, but taking it step by step makes all the difference. Find a system that works for you, and most importantly, enjoy the process of preserving your memories! Happy scanning!