Filing your scan

Once you've scanned your image, you'll need to choose a file format. Regardless of the image's final destination, it pays to save the unedited image as a TIFF or BMP file, unless drive space is a problem. If you do this, you'll always have a copy of the original scan to work on. Avoid saving your original work in compression formats such as JPEG and GIF; the methods these formats use to compress the image compromise its detail and depth of color (respectively), and this can never be regained. Their only advantage is a smaller file size. The TIFF format is compatible with most operating systems and is widely supported by graphics and other software, although it's not suitable for the Web.

If hard drive space is a problem, consider fitting a CD-ROM burner. You can then transfer your bulky original scans to the safety of a CD disc from which you can load them when you want to try some manipulation of the images.