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3-D scanning tips

Learn how to get perfect 3-D scans, and use them in creative projects.
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Content starts here
» 3-D scanning ideas
» Tips for flawless scans
» 3-D scanning tips for scrapbooking
» 3-D scanning tips for eBay sellers and collectors
» Use your 3-D scans in creative projects
» Choose the right scanner or All-in-One
» Learn more
Woman in rose garden and scan of rose.

Introduction

Flowers, souvenirs, artwork, and other three-dimensional objects can be scanned and combined with photos, or used to create unique artwork, scrapbook pages, calendars, and more. We give you tips on how to scan them and suggest how to you can use those scans in photo and art projects.


3-D scanning ideas


Bride and grandmother; scan of wedding dress
The wedding dress your grandmother made can be scanned and turned into wedding scrapbook pages.
Ordinary 3-D objects take on new value when you have a scanner. Everything from coins to a wedding dress can be scanned for use in a myriad of ways. Here are some possibilities:

  • Add flair to your photo projects.

  • Scan kids' art to archive for posterity.

  • Create your own wrapping paper and scrapbook pages.

  • Print scans onto fabric sheets to make quilts and clothing.

  • Scan objects to sell online.

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Tips for flawless scans


Transparency set atop of scanner bed
Place a transparency on the scanner bed when scanning objects that might scratch the glass.

Screen shot Remove Dust and Scratches

Black cloth is being pulled over scanner to prevent shadows
When scanning bulky items, pull a black cloth over your scanner to prevent shadows.
Keep these tips in mind for perfect 3-D scans every time:

  • Clean scanner glass of debris or streaks with a bit of glass cleaner sprayed onto a lint-free cloth.

  • Place object on the scanner glass. Or, use a transparency if scanning items that might scratch the scanner bed.

  • When scanning large items, gently close the lid over the item, then cover the scanner with a dark cloth to prevent shadows.

  • Choose the resolution or dpi (dots per inch) of your image. A scanning resolution of 300 dpi works well for most images.

  • Correct any blemishes on scans using software that comes with the HP Scanjet G3110, G4010, G4050, and 8300, and the HP Photosmart C7280 and C8180.

  • To use this feature while scanning, just look for Auto Correct Photos, then check the box that says Perform Dust & Scratch Removal.

  • Save the image to your computer as a source file in TIFF format to retain the most detail. You can then make a copy of this file and save as a JPEG, which is best for attaching to e-mails or posting to the Web.

Learn more about file formats.

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3-D scanning tips for scrapbooking


Kids combing beach; scan of seashells, driftwood, and a seahorse

Scrapbook page with scanned flowers as background
Scan fresh flowers from your wedding centerpieces to give scrapbook pages special meaning.
You can create your own scrapbook pages and trimmings by scanning souvenirs and mementos that relate to your theme.

Embellishments

A hospital bracelet or rattle can add meaning to a baby book, while seashells from your last beach vacation will remind you of the good times your kids had combing the shoreline.

Backgrounds

You can also design your own page backgrounds by scanning everything from fall leaves for a back-to-school scrapbook, to flowers from your bridal bouquet for a wedding album. Just be sure to gently arrange them on a clean scanner bed. You can even layer items by placing the ones you want in the forefront down first.

These scanned pages can also make beautiful note cards or wrapping paper.

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3-D scanning tips for eBay sellers and collectors


Woman scanning a beaded necklace
Scanning items is the perfect way to capture the detail needed to sell them online. Here are some ways scanning may help sales:

  • Jewelry and other charms can be scanned and enlarged to show detail.

  • Scan signatures on autographed items.

  • Highlight rare books by scanning covers and title pages.

  • Fossils and agates can be scanned with familiar objects to show scale.

  • Designer clothing and accessories can be authenticated by scanning labels and details.

Quality photos will also help sales; learn how to take photos for online auctions.

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Use your 3-D scans in creative projects


A yearly calendar with scanned hand prints

Scanned artwork can be used to make one-of-a-kind cards, calendars, and other projects at the HP Activity Center.

For example, baby hand and foot prints can be made with paint, then scanned to create a calendar like the one shown here.

You can also create your own scanography, or fine art, using scans of photos or 3-D objects. For example, flowers from your garden can be scanned, framed, and hung as an art piece.

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Choose the right scanner or All-in-One


HP Scanjet G3010 and HP Photosmart C7280
A photo scanner allows you to scan 3-D objects and photos. Here are some tips for finding one right for you:

  • HP photo scanners offer high resolution, negative and slide scanning, and software that lets you crop and edit your photos from your scanner. Compare models with HP's scanner comparison chart.

  • If you want to scan and print, a Photosmart All-in-One printer does both. Check out our buying guide for more information.

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Learn more


Son scanning item while mother watches
There's so much more to discover! The HP Digital Photography Center is loaded with informative, easy-to-use articles, how-tos, and tutorials:


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