I am seriously thinking of purchasing a Fuji G617 camera since I love that format. But is wondering what you guys use to scan your medium format images. I would like the ability to print to 6-7ft or bigger. I have an Epson V700 now, and I don't think it can do the trick, since the scanner is not very sharp in the first place on 35mm...... What are you thoughts? If I can stay away from drum scanning due to price, I would. Thank you.
Chun Ming
Posted by Mel Ladewig on October 14, 2009 at 9:42 PM
You'll need a drum scanner (recommend Howtek or ICG) or high end flatbed like a Screen or Creo to get that size print from 617. An Epson or Microtek scanner just doesn't have the optical capability and the Imacon/Hasselblad flextight scanners don't handle that large size in one go from what I understand and Nikon LS-9000 isn't ideal for that long size either. Drum scanners can be bought used for a reasonable price, but repairs can be expensive and supplies are a bit of a challenge. That is all that has kept me out of that market.
Posted by Erik Aagaard on October 14, 2009 at 11:05 PM
I attended a photo weekend put on by John Shaw around 2003 where I seem to remember he used a Nikon Coolscan 8000 (the predecessor to the 9000) and scanned half the transparency at a time, then merged the files in photoshop. He claimed it worked just fine, although it seemed fraught with technical pitfalls to me. Not sure if he ever made 6-foot prints, though.
Mel has it right. Drum scanner is the way to go. All of the facts he lists are true and I would also just add that they are a pain in the tail to operate. Finicky devices.
Personally I believe at this time the best options for me are to shoot 4x5 film and my digital Canon. If you want to see some big scans and are in the Denver area stop by sometime.
RichieV
Posted by Tim Mulholland on October 15, 2009 at 12:27 PM
Hi Chun,
I've been using an Imacon/Hasselblad scanner for several years and love the results for my panoramic/617 images (actually, for all of my MF negatives/transparencies). I've printed numerous images at 6' & 8'. I've been using the Imacon 343 which has produced good results, but wish that I could upgrade... ;)
Good luck,
Tim!
Posted by Laurent Baig on October 15, 2009 at 4:27 PM
Your V700 might do an ok job for you for 6x17. I'd rule it out completely for 35mm, but for LF size film, it can do a fair to middlin job. I'd try it, see if you like it. If you don't, your only options are a drum scanner, a high end flatbed, or an Imacon/Hasselblad. All of which are bucks. Or find someone that will scan for you on the cheap.
Posted by Rene Pirolt on October 19, 2009 at 5:12 PM
Hi Chun - if you are looking for a high-end scanner, pleaes shoot me a private message. I know somone that is selling one. Use the email option below.
Discussion
6 repliesI am seriously thinking of purchasing a Fuji G617 camera since I love that format. But is wondering what you guys use to scan your medium format images. I would like the ability to print to 6-7ft or bigger. I have an Epson V700 now, and I don't think it can do the trick, since the scanner is not very sharp in the first place on 35mm...... What are you thoughts? If I can stay away from drum scanning due to price, I would. Thank you.
Chun Ming
Mel has it right. Drum scanner is the way to go. All of the facts he lists are true and I would also just add that they are a pain in the tail to operate. Finicky devices.
Personally I believe at this time the best options for me are to shoot 4x5 film and my digital Canon. If you want to see some big scans and are in the Denver area stop by sometime.
RichieV
I've been using an Imacon/Hasselblad scanner for several years and love the results for my panoramic/617 images (actually, for all of my MF negatives/transparencies). I've printed numerous images at 6' & 8'. I've been using the Imacon 343 which has produced good results, but wish that I could upgrade... ;)
Good luck,
Tim!
Thanks
René