Digitizing printed photos: scanning and converting
Scan at a high resolution and save a master copy first. Then convert and resize a working JPG for sharing, email, or the web.
Scan bigger than you think you need
A print can be scanned at high resolution without inventing new detail, so scan at 300 to 600 dots per inch if the scanner allows it. That gives you room to crop and resize later.
Choose a resolution based on the final use: 300 DPI is comfortable for reprinting, while screen use needs far fewer pixels.
Keep a master, make a working copy
Save the untouched scan as a lossless master first — TIFF or PNG keeps every detail for future edits. The scan of an old photo is the only copy you control, so protect it.
For sharing and uploading, convert a copy of that master to JPG. The converted file is small enough to email, while the master stays available for retouching.
Cleaning up converted photos
Old prints often carry dust, faded color, or a slight paper tint. Fix those on the working copy after conversion, using the master whenever you need to start over.
Check the whites: a scan that looks gray usually needs a simple white balance or levels adjustment before you send it anywhere.