Features
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LED light source for digital camera scanning film
Illuminates an image area large enough for all formats up to 4x5 sheet film
97 CRI, guaranteeing high color accuracy
Over 2 stops brighter than previous model
Improved carbon composite construction for rigidity
Ideal for users of any skill level from beginner to advanced user
Backwards compatible with all Negative Supply accessories for 4x5 Light Source Basic
Product Details
The Negative Supply 4x5 Light Source Basic MK2 (97 CRI) is part of the second generation of light sources from Negative Supply, meant to replace the original 4x5 Light Source Basic. Designed with 35mm, 120 and 4x5 film in mind, the 4x5 Light Source Basic MK2 is created for users that need a bright, reliable light source with perfect light uniformity across the entire surface.
Among the improvements over the previous model are a custom in-house designed and finished acrylic surface that increases brightness (2x brighter), an improved carbon composite housing, and more even illumination that guarantees no light falloff when scanning 4x5 film. It is backwards compatible with all Negative Supply accessories designed for the original 4x5 Light Source Basic.
Camera Scanning Considerations:
Camera Body
Just about any semi-modern, interchangeable-lens digital camera will work great for camera scanning. There are many mirrorless or DSLR options to choose from with large lens catalogs, tethered capture capability, and excellent image quality. Some high end cameras can even use pixel stitching to deliver extremely high levels of resolution.
Macro Lens
For camera scanning, the one real requirement is that your lens focuses close enough to capture the entire frame. For full frame cameras and capturing 35mm film, the term “1:1” designates a lens that will reproduce the 35mm frame exactly onto the full frame digital sensor. With crop-sensor bodies, 1:1 lenses focus even closer. Outside of reproduction factor (1:1), also look out for lenses that are sharp, have good color reproduction, limit internal reflections (modern coatings), and have very little vignetting. Finally, it’s generally best to use your macro lens stopped down 2-3 stops from wide open, as this gives a good combination of depth of field and sharpness.
Software for Negative Conversion
There are several plugins and standalone programs for converting digitally captured negatives into positive images. Most of the options presented here allow you to download a demo version to try before you buy and determine which one best suits your workflow.
