Using my SLR instead of a scanner

[Funkstar]

I had the idea of getting a scanner to digitise a load of old photos from my parents.

Then I had a thought - could I use my 40D instead?

anyone here done this? I've seen rigs for SLRs so you can shoot perfectly down, but i bet they are expensive. Anyone know of guides for setting this all up?

I don't mind spending a bit more than a decent scanner to get this working, and it would be a good excuse to get another lens if it can be justified

[kalniel]

Yes of course you can, a good, distortion free macro and some soft lighting should be all you need. If your tripod doesn't go straight down then just prop the photo up at an angle so you're still shooting perpendicular.

[Funkstar]

Any recomendations on a nice lense to use?

[kalniel]

IANAL..er Expert, but the Canon 60 f2.8 USM Macro EF-S maybe? Especially if you want to re-use the lens as it's quite a nice portrait lens too.

Cheapest option is proably the Sigma 50mm f2.8 EX DG Macro Lens.

I haven't worked out the actual angle of view and thus distances, so my 60mm recommendation is just a guess.

[Funkstar]

So the Canon 50mm f1.8 would do just fine then?

Already got one of them

I guess I need to set this up and just have a go with it.

[kalniel]

So the Canon 50mm f1.8 would do just fine then?

Already got one of them

I guess I need to set this up and just have a go with it.

Absolutely have a go, I'm just not aware how closely you can focus the non-macro lens.

[Funkstar]

Actually, it's the f1.4 (always make that mistake) which goes down to 45cm.

[Saracen]

I'll be interested to hear how you get on with this ..... because I can't help but feel the results aren't going to be anywhere near what you'd get with a decent scanner.

[Funkstar]

No, probably not, thats why I was asking If anyone had any advice etc.

While a scanner would undoubtedly produce the results I'm looking for, they do take up a lot of space and have pretty limited use.

[Whiternoise]

What you're trying to produce is basically a proper book scanner. They're pretty expensive and basically take shots of open books for easy digitisation.



The concept is definitely there, the hard part, i'd imagine is getting a really nicely diffused light source.

[Flibb]

Its going to be far quicker, easier and more convenient to use a flatbed. I would get one from ebay and sell it on when finished. Heres the proper stand for doing it with a camera
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/KAISER-RS1-PRO...QQcmdZViewItem

I think good consistant lighting will be your bigest problem

heres a pic of a setup
http://www.jessops.com/online.store/...erty=Relevance

[shiato storm]

leica produce a copy stand that has attachable light sources, 'tis good. not sure on cost though