Knowledge Centre • Artwork & Visual Materials

How Do You Choose the Right Artwork Scanning Method?

The correct capture method depends on size, condition, surface, rigidity, reflectivity, framing and the required digital output.

The decision should be made before capture. Wide-format scanning can suit suitable flat material; reprographic photography can suit oversized or delicate work; and flatbeds can be appropriate for smaller flat originals.

Standards context: The National Archives describes specialist digitisation across maps, plans, photographs, oversized items and bound materials, with stringent quality assurance. citeturn0search3

Choosing an artwork capture method

The capture method should be selected around the original object, its condition and the purpose of the digital master. Suitable material may be captured with a WideTEK 36 ART, reprographic camera system or flatbed solution, while delicate, oversized or surface-sensitive work may require a non-contact approach.

Materials and considerations

Size

Considered as part of the specialist capture and quality-control workflow for this material.

Condition

Considered as part of the specialist capture and quality-control workflow for this material.

Surface

Considered as part of the specialist capture and quality-control workflow for this material.

Framing

Considered as part of the specialist capture and quality-control workflow for this material.

Colour requirements

Considered as part of the specialist capture and quality-control workflow for this material.

Output requirements

Considered as part of the specialist capture and quality-control workflow for this material.

Key considerations

  • Size
  • Condition
  • Surface
  • Framing
  • Colour requirements
  • Output requirements

Need an artwork scanning specification?

We can assess the size, material, condition and intended use of your artwork or visual collection and recommend an appropriate capture method and digital output.