Dust removal without IR detection removes detail. If you have a model with
individual strands of hair across her face, the software may remove it
thinking it is a scratch. The same problems with other fine detail. If you
are looking for blurry portraits, it works fine. I think it is known that I
am biased because I work for Applied Science Fiction (the makers of Digital
ICE, Digital ROC and Digital GEM and the new dry film process Digital PIC)
but it is probably worth repeating.
I do a lot of scans for portrait and wedding photography (an avocation) and
I couldn't imagine scanning without Digital ICE. If the bride needs some
softening to smooth her complexion, I'd much rather do it after most of the
defects have been removed automatically. Yes, I am careful transporting the
film from the processor to my office. And yes, my office is relatively dust
free. But when I am making 16 by 25 inch portraits from 35 mm all kinds of
defects show up! Many times it is defects not caused by processing or my
handling, but defects in the professional grade film I'm using. Some defects
I wouldn't recognize as defects until Digital ICE finds them. Many times I
have had images that are more "vibrant" and "alive" when I compare the
before and after.
Jack Phipps
Applied Science Fiction
-----Original Message-----
From: Barbara & Martin Greene [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]
Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2001 7:45 AM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: filmscanners: Re: Filmscanners dust removal software/ SS4000
Just how effective are the dust removal programs that one can use with the
SS 4000? I do not work in anything like a pristine environment, and, much
to my surprise, have discovered that my slides, as sharp and perfectly
exposed as they are, are covered with all sorts of dust, scratches and junk.
Some of which may be due to the processing lab I use. How effective are
the programs that come with the SS 4000? How effective is Vuescan? Do
those who have serious dust problems find these programs to work well enough
together with a limited amount of work with Photoshop's rubber stamp?
Martin
