Use a scanner to make digital image files from old photographs or other pictures. You can then send the image files by e-mail, upload them to your website or include them in documents or photo collages you make on the computer. Depending on the scanner and software you use, the process will vary slightly, but you'll use the same basic methods.

Set Up

Purchase a scanner if you'll need to scan lots of pictures. Compare prices online before you purchase one. Set up the scanner on a desk or table where you have space to prepare books and pictures for scanning. Don't throw away any instructions or manuals that came with the scanner; you'll need these for set up. Install any software that came with the scanner. You can use a variety of different programs to scan pictures. Adobe Photoshop allows you to edit and re-size images once you've scanned them. Choose a program to work with and install it on your computer. If you only need to scan a few pictures, you can use a scanner at a school library or copy center. Consider working with a scanner at a copy center to see if you like it before you buy your own. You can ask the copy center customer service assistants for help with the machine.

Scanning

To scan a picture, place it face down on the scanner glass and close the lid. In the software you've chosen, go to the "File" menu and select "Import" and then "From Scanner." You might also be able to select the exact name of your scanner, such as "HP Scanjet G4050" or "Epson V500." A new window will open. First, select the type of document you are scanning from the options in the new window. You can choose "Color Picture," "Black and White Picture" or "Text Document." The document type you select will tell the scanner to use all colors, gray scale colors or simple black and white. You'll also have to select your desired file format and image resolution for the scanned picture. You can choose between a variety of file formats. JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) files work well for web use and general storage. Use the TIF (Tagged Image File) format for higher-quality images. TIF files are larger and will take up more space on your computer. Select a desired image "dpi," or dots (pixels) per inch. If you'll be printing the picture or enlarging it on a screen, select a dpi of at least 300. 72 dpi should suffice for web use and e-mailing, and the file will take up less space on your computer. Adjust the resolution or the picture's placement on the scanning bed after looking at the preview scan. You can select a specific area of the picture to scan by dragging a box over the preview scan. Click "Scan" to make the final scan, and then save the file.

Source:

Scantips.com: Scanning Tips

Public.asu.edu: How to Scan in PhotoShop

Lehigh.edu: Scanning in Photoshop CS2

More Information:

Scantips.com

Staples.com: Scanners

Fileinfo.com: TIF File Extension