Advice on scanning Kodak BW400 CN please

[michael_boylan]

I've bought a load of BW 400CN (on 7dayshop.com) and am playing around with scanning the first roll.

I'm using a Minolta DualScan IV and Vuescan, has anyone any pearls of wisdom to impart?

I see Vuescan doesn't have the film listed. What do others do? Do you scan in colour positive and invert in PhotoShop, or stick it on generic B&W negative film and scan in B&W?

I've seen some good results - Bill - with this film so I know it can be done! But my first trials are looking very "soft" like silver halide film looks when underdeveloped.

[spylaw4]

Michael,

I have the same scan set up and would also be interested in the consensus of opinion.
You do have the latest Vuescan (8.4.71 unless another has sneaked out) I presume?
I rather think it will be a case of trial and error alas.

[andybarton]

Remind me, Michael, is this the film with the orange base? If so, try scanning as colour negative (play with the Portra options in Vuescan), or try the Ilford XP option in b£w negative stock in Vuescan

Don't forget, you can leave ICE on (if the Minolta aupports it)

[michael_boylan]

Originally Posted by andybarton

Remind me, Michael, is this the film with the orange base?

Sadly yes. I thought it had a clear base when I ordered it, but I was mistaken.

(if the Minolta aupports it)

Sadly not It's a cheapo film scanner.

Tnx for the tip on Portra - I'll try that.

[michael_boylan]

First experiments:-

Picture 1.png
This is what you get using the settings:-
Input Media>B&W negative
Color>Negative Vendor: Generic (XP2 looked awful)

Picture 2.png
This is using:-
Input Media> Color negative
Color>Negative Vendor: Kodak, Film: Portra

In my simple way of understanding histograms the latter gives more to work with. The image comes in with a green cast but that is simply dealt with by Channel Adjustment Layer then selecting B&W with Green Filter.

[Dan States]

Looks like your white point is set too high. I scan in DNG making sure the white point is to the far right on the histogram. This gives a nice flat negative DNG file that can be adjusted easily in conversion.

Best wishes
Dan