How hard is scanning anyway?

[KevinS]

I recently started scanning again after a customer contacted me regarding some of my older images. The results I'm now getting are better than my earlier efforts, due to my having gotten better at scanning and PP. For my purpose (reproduction in an editorial publication), the Nikon Coolscan 8000ED has been ideal. It does both 35mm and Medium Format film, so no need for two scanners. The Digital ICE is very effective. I produce a file free of dust spots in 10 or 15 minutes, ready for upload. My Epson 4990 was bought for 4x5 film, but just doesn't look sharp enough for my needs compared to the 8000ED. I use Vuescan for both scanners. A dedicated film scanner would serve you better than a flatbed, IMO.

Thanks to this thread I'm waiting for a Lightpad to try out converting using a DSLR + Macro lens.

 

[Rangefinder 35]

Instead of considering it as a chore, I'd rather regard scanning as another way of making a photograph.