a few (wet) scanning questions

First off, I've looked high and low but can't get a basic short answer, what exactly does wet scanning entail and why do people do it?

I'm scanning a V700 and looking for a way to get the best possible scans out of it for magazine print. They usually ask for scans at 12x12 and 300 DPI. I've found dry scanning with the Epson holders to be brutal so now I'm looking elsewhere.

zenza said:

First off, I've looked high and low but can't get a basic short answer, what exactly does wet scanning entail and why do people do it?

I'm scanning a V700 and looking for a way to get the best possible scans out of it for magazine print. They usually ask for scans at 12x12 and 300 DPI. I've found dry scanning with the Epson holders to be brutal so now I'm looking elsewhere.

Click to expand...

There are several benefits you may see from wet scanning.

1. internal micro-contrast is enhanced. This makes the scan look sharper.

2. The appearance of grain is is minimized.

3. Small hairlines service scratches do not show on the scan.

4. Wet mounting assures that all of the film is kept perfectly flat, which increases resolution if you take the time to find the best plane of focus for your scanner.

Fluid mounting can not turn a consumer flatbed like the V700 into a high end professional flatbed or drum scanner but it can improve the quality of your scan if you do it right.

Sandy King

zenza said:

I've found dry scanning with the Epson holders to be brutal so now I'm looking elsewhere.

Click to expand...

What exactly do you mean by "brutal"? The biggest problem with the Epson holders is they don't hold the film flat. Using an aftermarket holder can greatly improve the sharpness of your scans.

That might be what I'm getting at. Looks like I'll have to invest.