How to Scan Film Using Your Phone or Tablet Computer

We shared a couple weeks ago that it’s possible to scan film using an ordinary flatbed scanner and a DIY cardboard adapter, but did you know you can also use a large-screen cell phone or tablet computer to provide the necessary backlighting? All you need is a way to turn a large portion of the screen entirely white (e.g. a “flashlight” app). Simply place the device facedown over the film on the scanner, and scan it with the cover open.

If you’re scanning negative film, you’ll need to invert the resulting scan:

Voila! A simple way to scan your film using an ordinary scanner.

Turn Negatives Into Digital Photos Using Smartphone and Flatbed Scanner [Macro PB]


Image credits: Photographs by Jackson/Macro PB and used with permission

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