Expert: Eric C. M. Basir - 5/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have a number of slides that I would like to make prints from. Is there a way with a computer/scanner/printer or ??
that I can scan the slide (without ruining it) see the picture on my screen and improve it (exposure, remove marks, etc.) and then make a print from it? Since I have a lot of slides, is there a reasonably priced way to do all this??

ANSWER: Bruce, are you scanning 35mm slides?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: yes, they are 35mm slides. I have a scanner/printer: HP PSC 2355 All In One Printer.Scanner.Copier but I don't know how to proceed.

Answer
That particular printer will not scan your slides (you can try, but it will be a mess!). You will need a dedicated slide scanner, such as a Nikon Coolscan scanner. You can comparison shop here (http://photografix.pro/Restoration/PGXU_Store-Tools-SH.html):

However, that is a very high-end scanner which can be very intimidating for a beginner. So I recommend the Epson V350 (you can comparison shop for it from the aforementioned website). It can handle prints and 35mm slides and negatives. The quality is very good--not as precise as a Nikon Coolscan. But good enough for archival purposes.

I also recommend that you purchase Adobe Photoshop Elements (a version and platform appropriate for your system and budget). Check the same links to comparison-shop.

Finally, you should purchase a good book for Elements. I recommend the Teach Yourself Visually Series. Comparison shop here: http://photografix.pro/Restoration/PGXU_Store-Tools-Books.html

Buy the book for the version of Elements you own.

I hope that helps!