Simple Scanning for Detectorists

When posting coins or artefacts on a forum for identification or to a magazine for publication, many detectorists still struggle with a camera for a decent image, little realising that most objects can easily, quickly, and effectively be ‘photographed’ by a scanner – assuming the objects fit on the glass platen, of course! I regularly use a scanner when posting pictures on detecting forums because I find it quick and easy, the final result is always more than adequate and does the job.

The black background with the grenade base plug is achieved by leaving the lid up on the scanner and in a darkened room. Super detail!

Whether submitting a picture taken with a scanner or by using a camera, publications ask that that you send in the best image possible when submitting a coin or artefact for identification. It is possible to achieve this with a scanner. I don’t usually send high resolution pictures via email but always host my images on a free site like PhotoBucket or Dropbox. Using a hosting site means that it just takes a simple click on a link for the recipient to access them.

Although cameras will offer more control, especially in lighting, depth is no longer a problem and I find that the scanner will automatically take a picture without requiring the user to understand many details. And I like that! But what about those bulky objects? No bother.

Three scanned images of the pipe tamper have been stitched together with a simple photo-manipulation programme

Just place the object on the glass and scan. You will have to look for a scanner with a hinged lid so that you can place bulky objects under it or a lid that you can remove altogether. In addition to the artefact above, I have raided the kitchen cupboard and chosen a container with writing to illustrate how effective the scan can be – it’s called a mug. Conversely, when you need a close-up of a tiny object, I have found that I manage to get better results from a scanner than a camera with a macro lens – and it’s much faster.

A difficult subject, but the scanner copes very well. The lid was removed and the mug placed on the platen. Simple!

Look at the detail that can be seen on a pound coin. Certainly as good as the detail obtainable using one of those USB microscopes that are all the rage at the moment.

I mentioned modern scanners earlier. If you are in the market for a new scanner then make sure that you purchase one with a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor.

These units use an optical lens and a system of mirrors to focus the image. My examples are all taken with an Epson Perfection 3200. This machine isn’t made anymore, but any scanner in the Perfection range and with a CCD sensor should work.

If you want depth in your images then steer clear of the scanner with a CIS chip (Contact Image Sensor). These units are often small and inexpensive and may be described as ‘compact’ or ‘ultra thin’. Be warned, there is zero depth of field above the scanner glass making this machine unsuitable for scanning 3D objects.

When scanning artefacts it is advisable to place a sheet of A4 clear transparency film on the glass to prevent scratching … as I learned to my cost! I hinted earlier that an obvious problem with flatbed scanners is the lack of lighting control. Each machine will give slightly different results and you must be prepared to experiment. Due to the angle of the optics you may find that a 3D object may cast a shadow in one direction. This doesn’t concern me and I find it preferable to an equally lit scan devoid of shadows. Occasionally, when the final result is not to my liking, I simply position my anglepoise lamp to the side and directed towards the object being scanned. That usually does the trick.

Another example of what can be achieved using a simple scanner instead of a camera

Additionally, some ‘perspective’ may be seen in the final scan. When this happens try scanning with the object in a different position on the glass. If you don’t like the black background these scans produce then this can be remedied with a little manipulation in any photo program such as Photoshop. Be prepared to experiment for the results you want. I’ve even had acceptable images just by placing coloured paper on top of the object being scanned.

In conclusion, flatbed scanners are relatively inexpensive and of great value if you regularly post images of your finds on detecting forums. Because of the advances in technology and manufacturing, you now get a much better machine with lots of additional features for much less money than previously. I certainly wouldn’t be without mine.