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Using EOS-M to copy slides/negatives

Started Jul 28, 2017 | Discussions thread
adam8190 Junior Member • Posts: 42
Re: Using EOS-M to copy slides/negatives
4

Yes, I've copied 35mm negatives with the EF-M 28mm and my M5.  The original M would work well too.

Like you probably have, I read all the blog posts on the internet debating the merits of traditional film scanning vs using a digital camera.  I decided to try with my M5 and am happy with the results.

Here is what you'll need to mimic my set up:

- A tripod with the ability to turn the top column upside down or horizontal.  I was lucky that my old Manfrotto 190XPROB had this feature.

- A remote release for the camera

- A backlit surface to place the negatives on.  I'm using an Artograph Lightpad ($67 on Amazon)

- Plastic negative holders so they stay flat ($10 - $20)

- A small bullseye bubble level ($7) to ensure the camera is aligned with the negative

- A rocket air blower duster ($10)

Because I already had the tripod, remote release, and lens, this seemed like a better option for me than buying a scanner.  I set the 28mm in macro mode (super macro is not necessary).  I haven't tried 120 film yet, but see no reason why I won't get similar results.  I haven't tried slides.

You'll need to invert the image file in a photo editor on your computer - it's just one click in Affinity Photo.  I haven't tried inverting color negatives yet but don't expect major problems.

Here's a jpeg "scan" from the first roll of 35mm film I tried with this method.

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