Still pictures/ best size format?

[brucefl]

Hi,

Well intsalled wind 7, now my scanner doesn't work. I can use my lexmark x6570, but it doesn't have all the user adjustable settings my microtek did.
It will allow me to scan at certain dpi's but won't let me adjust the output size. So if I scan a picture that is 2" by 2" I get a picutre that is 2x2 at 300 dpi. Then I'll have to enlarge it in PIX2, so when I put the stills in VSX2, then it will either fill in either vert. or horz., denpending on the picture?
Or should I be more concerned whether it is 640x480 (proportionaly adjusted)? Think I would know after all these years. I need to work on a presentation for a feneral, and want the clearest pictures possible for the DVD? Oh too, I assume .bmp is best?
Thanks Bruce
now to find a new scanner

[mitchell65]

If you scan an original that is 2" x2" then when it is enlarged enough to fill a TV screen on a DVD then there is noway that it is going to be clear. I should think it will be quite pixelated. Before buying a new scanner have you checked to see if you can download a Win 7 driver for your existing scanner? To get a square image original to fill a full screen in VS you will need to crop it to get the right width - height ratio. If you enlarge it without constraining the aspect ratio then it will be badly distorted. Yes I would go for BMP format but the file might be a bit big!
This guide by Steve will be useful:
http://forum.corel.com/EN/viewtopic.php?p=119526#119526

[brucefl]

No, usually what I did, I would adjust to the output size (using 2x2 as an example) I would increase it maybe 50%, and increse the dpi. Which gives (gave) me a fairly good picture. Although most are bigger than 2x2 (though I haven't received the pictures yet) I need to get it straight in my mind, rather than trial and error. VS has always done a good job on stills.
Bruce

[mitchell65]

As you are likely to start off with different size originals I think a certain amout of trial and error is inevitable. Mind you I also think that as you are dealing with old photos and it is for a funeral then to let the photos look old will add to the theme not detract from it. If an image doesn't fill the screen completely I would think that would be quite acceptable. Be interested in hearing how it goes.