Nikon LS-40 setup for a real B&W scan

[alexz]

I just begun scanning of my first ever manually processed B&W film, I'm using NikonScan. I noticed even though setting it to Neg (Mono), it produces a slight yellowish tint to the scanned image and the file size is similar to color one (around 35 MB for full frame). I'd expect it to produce mush smaller files due to absent color information, I suspect even though it is set to Mono, the scanner still produces color RGB file.

Opening files in PS - I see indeed slight (but readily discernable) yellowish cast to teh image and in order to convert it to a real B&W appearance have to use Image->Mode->Grayscale, then the yellowish tint vanishes.

So, how to set the scanner (in NikonScan) to a pure B&W scanning to produce clean B&W files without unnecessary color info (to obtain smaller files) ? Does it haev something to do with Color Management settings in NS ?

Thanks, Alex

 

[kully]

Hallo Alex, welcome to the pains of NikonScan. First off, make sure you have the latest version of the software (check the Nikon website).

I havn't used my Nikon scanner much lately, but if I remember correctly, as well as selecting the type of film you can also select how you want it output, look at the drop down boxes below the type of film - you will see one which probably says "calibrated RGB" change this to grayscale and bob will be your aunt.

 

[alexz]

Thanks.
Well, in fact, there is very little pain in NS usage. I used to it working with it for last 6 years quite intensively scanning lots of C41 and E6, experiences no particular troubles whatsoever. But this is first time in my life (and in my sacnner's life) scanning a real B&W film.
Well, I figured the necessary setup - the combination of Neg (Mono) and Grayscale button on NS control panel is just what I need - produces clear B&W with files approx. three times smaller in size (just a mere of 12MB) then regular color one (35-36 MB).

Thanks, Alex