How to scan old photos
Scan a flat, undamaged photograph on a flatbed. Include its full edges and save an unedited master file. Photograph bound or fragile items in place without forcing them flat.
Give each photograph a reference number. Use it in the filenames for the front and back, and in your record of the people and place.
Scan a few photographs and inspect the results before starting a large batch. Check a face and any handwriting at full size.
Make a scrapbook from your scans
Add your scanned photos to a digital scrapbook and arrange them on the pages.
Use a flatbed for loose prints
The National Archives advises copy stands and supports for books, and warns against automatic feeders for fragile or valuable papers. Keep a bound album supported.
Handle loose prints at their edges with clean hands. Stop if a photograph is stuck, flaking or too fragile to move safely.
Save a master and an editing copy
The Library of Congress suggests 300 to 400 dpi for ordinary snapshot prints. Small originals or substantial enlargement may need a higher setting. Test the detail you need.
Save a TIFF master where the scanner offers it, then make a JPEG working copy. Crop and colour-adjust the copy, preserving the full original scan.
Keep the front and back together
Writing, studio marks and dates on the back may identify a photograph years later. Capture them before putting the print away.
- Use matching names such as photo-014-front and photo-014-back.
- Record an approximate date explicitly when it is uncertain.
- Note who identified people in the picture.
- Keep a full-edge capture even if the book uses a closer crop.
Steps
Check the print and number it
Check the print's condition and give it a simple reference number. Photograph it in place if moving it risks damage.
Test one image
Capture the complete photograph at the chosen settings. Inspect a face, fine writing and the four edges at full size.
Scan the back
Capture useful writing on the back and use the same reference number as the front. Record known names in the accompanying list.
Save master and working files
Keep the unedited master, create a copy for the book and open files from the backup location before putting the batch away.
Questions
What resolution should I use for old snapshots?
The Library of Congress gives 300 to 400 dpi for common snapshot prints. Test a higher setting when the original is small or you need a larger reproduction.
Should I remove an old photo from its album to scan it?
Only if it comes out safely. Photograph a bound or stuck item in place rather than pulling it away or forcing the album against scanner glass.
Should I scan black-and-white prints in colour?
Colour can preserve the paper tone, staining and handwritten marks. Keep that capture if those details matter; make any monochrome version from a working copy.