Professional High-End Scanning Services

Our Art Scan Studio facilitates the digitisation and reproduction of paintings, graphics, books, slides and different transparent or non-transparent objects.

High-End Artwork Reproduction Scanning

Essentially there are three ways we can reproduce your artwork. We can scan the original, scan from a transparency or scan from a print. To enable the very best quality results, scanning from the original artwork is highly recommended and will produce prints of exceptional calibre and detail, which are faithful to the original.  A high-quality proof, up to the size of 16" (40cm) longest edge, is included in our pricing.

To enable our craftsmen to produce limited edition prints of the very highest quality, our studio is equipped with the very latest and highest quality art capture equipment available.

High-resolution artwork scanning setup at Fine Art Solutions.

We are able to work with a variety of sizes, including very large artworks up to any size that will come through the door of our studio.

Digitization of historic glass paintings with precise colour fidelity.
Three-dimensional scanning illumination for textured artworks.

Facilitating the digitisation and reproduction of paintings, graphics, books, slides and different transparent or non-transparent objects.

Professional scanning of transparent objects up to 30x40 cm.

For use by artists, publishers, museums, galleries, archives, libraries, image centres and discerning reproduction companies.

High-End Digital Archiving and Scanning of Artworks

  • Quality and Precision for Digitisation and Reproduction
  • Original artworks that can come through the door of our studio
  • Archival quality digital capture
  • Touch-sensitive objects such as valuable graphics, pictures and paintings
  • Reproduction to visualise structures absolutely necessitating perfect illumination
  • Archiving of books, journals and magazines
  • Objects to be restored
  • Garments and fabrics
  • Reprints of maps and blue-prints
  • Transparent objects up to 30 x 40 cm
  • Glass negatives
  • Historic glass paintings

The entire system is installed and calibrated to be geometrically perfect, to allow accurate pixel by pixel scanning. This requires micro-adjustment of alignment, by our trained technicians, before making each high resolution scan.

3D Illumination for Artwork Scanning

The correction of the illumination is monitored by specialist software thus always ensuring evenly illuminated reproductions. Should a three-dimensional surface be reproduced, for example a painting, there exists the possibility of operating with virtual 3D illumination. This specialist software assists in avoiding light fall-off to the corners and enhances the three dimensional properties of the subject being captured. Using this technique, effects can be achieved exceeding pure reproduction, thus fulfilling demands of both conservationists and aesthetics.

High-End Scanning Testimonials

Take a look at what our satisfied clients have to say.

L K

The first time I saw the reproductions of my work, I was amazed! Fine Art Solutions captures every detail, and their input is invaluable. People often mistake the print for the original!

A E

The proofs I received from Fine Art Solutions were a perfect match to the original. Their attention to colour detail is unmatched, and their expertise in Giclée printing is evident in every project. I couldn’t be more pleased!

S F

I picked up my proof today which is fantastic - please convey my thanks to the team please!

Find Your Solution

Our expert craftsmen are ready to assist
with your project requirements.

High-End Scanning Services for Art, Photography, and Documents

High-end scanning services are essential for preserving the integrity of artworks, documents, and photographs. From intricate fine art to delicate archival materials, choosing the right scanning method ensures accuracy, colour fidelity, and long-lasting digital reproductions. Whether for artists, museums, or businesses, scanning services provide a range of solutions tailored to your unique needs.

 

History and Evolution of Scanning Technology

The development of scanning technology has revolutionised how we preserve and reproduce physical media. From the early days of flatbed scanners to today’s advanced camera-based scanning, each method has evolved to meet the demand for higher resolution, colour accuracy, and archival quality. Understanding the evolution of these technologies allows us to appreciate the variety of options available for different media types.



Types of High-End Scanning Services

Different types of high-end scanning services cater to various materials and output requirements. Understanding the specifics of each option helps you choose the best method for your needs.



Flatbed Scanning

Flatbed scanning is one of the most widely used methods for high-resolution scans of documents, photographs, and smaller works of art. Flatbed scanners consist of a glass surface where the material is placed, while a scanning sensor moves beneath it to capture the image. Flatbed scanners typically offer resolutions of 600 to 6400 DPI, with higher resolutions best suited for smaller items like 35mm slides.

    • Best For: Flat, non-textured objects like paper documents, photographs, illustrations, and smaller artworks.
    • Resolution & Quality: Flatbed scanners offer resolutions up to 6400 DPI, depending on the size and detail of the material, making them ideal for detailed prints and digital reproduction.
  • Advantages:

- High resolution for fine details.

- Excellent colour fidelity.

- Suitable for both grayscale and colour scanning.

  • Limitations:

- Limited size capacity. Generally suited for materials that can fit within a standard A4 or A3 area, though larger flatbeds exist.

- Not suitable for highly textured or fragile materials due to the direct contact required with the glass.

 

Camera-Based Scanning

Our camera-based scanning utilises a scanback system, capturing ultra-high-resolution scans (up to 700MP) from large-format camera systems in a controlled environment. Unlike traditional photography, this technique creates scanned files for true-to-life digital reproductions. This method is often used in archival settings where the preservation of the original piece is critical.

    • Best For: Large paintings, textured surfaces, fragile or 3D objects, and oversized materials that cannot fit into a flatbed scanner.
    • Resolution & Quality: Our scanback system delivers up to 700MP scans, with the potential for future upgrades to 2800MP, ensuring unparalleled detail and archival quality.
  • Advantages:

- Safe for fragile and oversized materials, as there is no direct contact with the original piece.

- Can capture intricate textures and details that might be lost in traditional scanning methods.

- Suitable for both flat and three-dimensional objects.

  • Limitations:

- Requires specialised equipment and a controlled lighting environment for optimal results.

- Typically more expensive due to the equipment and setup involved.

- Can be slower compared to other scanning methods.

 

Overhead Scanning for Books and Artworks

Overhead scanning is a method that employs a high-resolution camera mounted above a flat surface to capture images of books, paintings, maps, and other large or delicate artworks. This technique is especially valuable when preserving the integrity of the original piece is crucial.

  • Best For: Large-format books, paintings, maps, posters, fragile or historical documents
  • Resolution & Quality:

- Overhead scanning systems can achieve very high resolutions, often surpassing those of flatbed scanners. The exact resolution depends on the camera's sensor size and lens quality.

- Proper lighting and camera settings are essential to ensure accurate colour reproduction and detail capture.

  • Advantages:

- Safe for fragile items: While our overhead scanning process uses a glass pane to press books flat, it still ensures minimal impact on fragile materials, making it ideal for preserving delicate or historical documents.

- Large format: Can handle books and artworks of various sizes, including those that are too large for flatbed scanners.

- High-resolution output: Can produce images with exceptional detail.

- Preservation of originals: Ideal for preserving valuable or historical items.

  • Limitations:

- Requires specialised equipment: Overhead scanning systems can be more expensive than flatbed scanners.

- Setup and calibration: Setting up an overhead scanning system can be more complex, requiring careful alignment of the camera and lighting.

- Potential for shadows: Shadows can be a challenge, especially when scanning three-dimensional objects or books with uneven surfaces. Proper lighting and positioning can help minimise their impact.

Note: While overhead scanning is a valuable tool for many applications, it may not be the best choice for highly detailed or textured objects, as the camera's perspective can introduce distortions. In such cases, a combination of overhead scanning and other methods, such as flatbed scanning, might be necessary.

Overhead scanning uses a glass pane to press books flat, there is some contact with the original material. This method may not be ideal for extremely fragile books, as it can place strain on the spine. For delicate or historical books, alternative methods such as a V-shaped cradle system may be more appropriate to preserve their integrity.


Benefits of High-End Scanning

Compared to photography, scanning offers far greater detail and larger file sizes, essential for high-quality reproductions. Scanning also allows for more controlled lighting, reducing shadows and inconsistencies common in photographs.

High-end scanning services provide numerous advantages:

  • Superior Quality: High-end scanning ensures the highest resolution, colour accuracy, and detail, making it perfect for archival purposes and art reproduction.
  • Preservation: Scanning services create digital archives, preserving the integrity of physical media for future generations.
  • Versatility: Different scanning methods cater to various media types, from flat artwork to three-dimensional objects.
  • Customisation: Scans can be optimised for print, digital display, or archival storage based on your needs.


Who Uses Our High-End Scanning Services?

High-end scanning services are widely used by professionals across different fields:

  • Artists: To create digital reproductions or Giclée prints of their original artworks.
  • Photographers: For high-quality digitisation of negatives, slides, and photographs.
  • Museums and Galleries: For archiving and preserving historical documents, photographs, and artworks.
  • Businesses: For converting paper documents into digital formats for storage and easier access.


Famous Artworks Scanned with Advanced Technology

Many renowned artworks have been scanned using high-end techniques, including pieces from the National Portrait Gallery and Royal Academy of Arts, ensuring their longevity and accessibility for future generations.