More Comparisons: FlipPal Mobile Scanner vs. Epson Flatbed

My recent comparisons of photo scans on the FlipPal Mobile Scanner and my Epson V500 elicited several comments and suggestions. I thought it might be interesting to follow-up on JL's query about file format, with the added twist of correcting the color cast from the FlipPal.

To be as fair as possible, I used the popular photo editing program, Adobe Photoshop Elements 9, with the fully automated Guided Edit commands. I started with two files of the full image scanned last week; both scanned at 600 dpi. One scanned on the FlipPal and one on the Epson V500.

The images were loaded into PSE9 and the Guided Edit window was opened, then the following edits were performed:

1. Basic Photo Edits: Crop raw edges. Save image.

2. Photographic Effects: Old Fashioned Photo (these are applied automatically when the button is clicked):

a. convert to black and white image with Urban/Snapshot button
b. adjust tonality
c. add texture 
d. adjust hue/saturation (un-check Colorize, adjust Lighten to -15)

3. Save in original format (TIF or JPG).

4. Crop tight to show faces and save (TIF or JPG).

5. We now have four new images, two from each scanner showing the same basic edits. I would have liked to post the TIF images, but the files are just tooo huge at 5M and 21M, so I am posting JPG versions of all. I looked closely at all the images, and think the JPGs are still close to the quality of the TIF images. For me, the real difference is in contrast and color. Now that all images have been color-corrected the differences are less obvious. What do you think? Which do you prefer? 

 FlipPal 600 dpi JPG, cropped, edited

Epson V500 600 dpi JPG, cropped, edited
native TIF image too large for web

 

FlipPal 600 dpi cropped edited JPG

Epson V500 600 dpi cropped, edited JPG 

I think the images are all pretty good reproductions of an average family snapshot. One thing to consider, however, is that the FlipPal scanned image required cropping (it did not fill the 4x6 frame) and color correction. The Epson scan was pretty much "good to go" from the original scanned image.

It's good to have options, and I'm glad to have the FlipPal Mobile Scanner available for research trips and visits to relatives. The after-scanning cropping and editing are worth every minute if it gives me access to a new photo or document I would otherwise lose.

Comments

[Jenna Mills]

Denise, in the larger photos, it appears to me that the Epson scan is a little more vibrant, but I can't tell a difference in the two photos that you zoomed in on. Either way, having your FlipPal sure will be convenient!

[Colleen]

Your post is interesting & timely. I have always used a flatbed style scanner with varying results, depending on the scanner. Just received a VuPoint Magic Wand portable scanner as a gift. I'm just starting to test it and compare with the flatbed. Thanks for the info you posted.

[Chris]

thank you for the comparison and the useful information. the convenience of the portable flip pal looks like a great way to scan on the road.