Scanning prints for webpage

Hello All,

First post on DPUG. Been on APUG since 2004 maybe? Long time.

I have never been happy with the way my images have looked online. My workflow is to make a good print on 8x10" fibre paper and scan that on my old Epson 3170. I scan at 300dpi, I try to make the software do no clipping or auto adjustments. I'll edit it in Photoshop, but not intensively. All I'll do is use levels as a layer, and holding down alt (I think?) while adjusting the sliders I try not to clip off any detail in either the highlights or shadows. That's it. I only adjust the white and black sliders, not the grey middle one.

I figure if the print looks good, by doing the minimal adjustments the tonality will be preserved. It doesn't seem to be the case.

I tried using the eye dropper in levels to set the black to the film rebate in my prints, and the white to paper white. But that didn't pan out. I thought that would be my ticket for sure.

I've started using Vuescan instead of the Epson software, and the results are better I suppose. Not spectacularly, but better nonetheless. I've noticed though that there's still an inherent brightening of the image. I just want a straight scan, no frills.

I've tried to set the controls according to this Ken Lee webpage I found (Ken Lee Gallery - Scanning Tips (with EPSON and VueScan Software)) so that there's no automating.

Most of the threads online are in regards to scanning film; they're not all that useful to me. Any suggestions for workflow, or using Vuescan would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

I am also looking for the same advise on workflow with VueScan. Thanks.

dumb question, what color space are you posting to the web? some browsers are supporting Adobe98 now but compairing a reflective Print to a transmissive screen is problematic. you may need to use PS curves to adjust your tones.

sRGB is generally the best for web. Try posting a step scale on the edge of any print that looks good on your monitor and compare it to what you see online with your browser. They should be the same as Apug does not alter the image. If it is not the same its because the browser is having an issue rendering the image. If the highlights and or shadows drop out adjust accordingly prior to posting, but first try a different, smaller gamut, profile. Scanning @300dpi is overkill. I believe Apug has a limit of ~600 or 800 pixels per edge which would be about 60 to 80 spi. Consider scanning @ 160 spi and size down to 80 spi.