If you're reading this, you're obviously interested in digital imaging in at least some of its myriad forms.
This tipsheet is meant to get you started, help you understand jargon, realize the possibilities, think about considerations and point you in the right direction. There are also separate tipsheets for:
Digital Imaging Terminology
Digital Cameras Introduction and Terminolog
Scanning and Working with Digital Images: Beyond the Basics
How can you capture digital images or where can you get them?
Scanning
- Flatbed (for flat artwork, pictures, etc.)
- Transparency (for slides and negatives)
Note: If you scan the images yourself, there may be some color correcting to do.
Photo CDs/Picture CDs (Kodak Photo CDs are already recorded and CD-Rs you can burn)
- Local photo retailers often offer CD services along with processing.
- Digital cameras/camcorders (See resources below)
- Free off the web (See resources below)
How can you use digital images?
- To enhance websites
- To send photos to your friends/family over the Internet
- In electronic presentations and in printed materials
When getting ready to make a digital image, consider "What is its end use?" The answer to this question will dictate how your create the image and save it.
What are the steps in the digital process?
- Acquire a good image (See "how can you capture digital images?")
- Select storage medium (zip/Jazz disks, floppies, PC cards, memory sticks, smart media, hard drives, flash pix, CD-R, CD-RW)
- Inventory images (see Image catalogers in definitions.)
- Edit images with output in mind (See output information)
- Save in appropriate file formats (See file formats)
- Back up your files
How do I send/view pictures via email?
- Be aware which platform the recipient is using. PCs require a tagline at the end of each file, whereas Macs do not. (eg photos .jpg, .gif)
Cross-platforming can still be problematic, however. - Send images at 72 dpi, probably saved as a jpeg medium quality. (See file formats for more information.) Depending on your image source, you may have to resize/resave your image. Be sure to save as 8-bit /indexed color.
- AOL is notorious for having problems sending pictures over the Internet. Consult your Internet Service Provider (ISP) if you are having difficulties.
Output Information (how large should I scan my files?)
- WWW images: Use the same settings as for emailing images.
- Desktop publishing: Consult the graphic designer at the publication for more information. Some standard resolutions are:
- 150 dpi: images up to 4"x6" produced in black and white on newsprint or for non-glossy newsletters.
- 300 dpi: images up to 5"x7" produced in color for glossy stock.
- Personal Use: Decide based on available memory and storage medium.
- Enlargements: Choose based on personal use requirements and the size of enlargements. Once you get close to 8"x10" reproductions from a
35 mm original, expect to lose quality.
Before you buy:
- Research current products.(see resources below)
- Decide how much you want to spend.
- Realize prices are coming down fast and some technology is becoming obsolete
- Consider how you want to use the technology and learn more about it.
- Consider whether you should buy a digital camera (more expensive but all your images are originally digital) or a scanner (less expensive but must scan pictures individually)
For more digital imaging information see tip sheet "Digital Imaging Terminology".