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When would photographing your genealogy documents serve you better than scanning them?
If you have inherited a mountain or room full of genealogy papers or need to downsize your archive, you need to digitize the contents so others can access and use the data. The overwhelming task forces the challenge of quality vs efficiency to the forefront, and you’re wondering if you should scan your documents or digitize them.
Differences Between Scanning and Photographing Your Genealogy Documents
Scanning Documents
Scanned images have a better resolution
They have better color depth on a bits-per-pixel basis.
Lighting is uniform lighting.
You avoid optical distortion as you do not have to adjust the focus.
Best suited for flat objects.
Scans take more time than photographs.
Photographing Documents
It takes less time to photograph a document.
Reduces handling of fragile documents.
Reduces the appearance of dust particles.
Cameras are more portable than scanners.
Deciding Between Scanning and Photographing
Some archivists suggest scanning contemporary documents and using a camera to find items of archaeological significance.
Flip that advice around unless you have a setup like the one in the video below.
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For modern documents, snap a picture… or receive a ‘BORN DIGITAL’ version.
Let the size and flatness of the historical document, along with the technology available to you or the documents, be your guide.
Use a photographic capture kit if you have the funds and space to set one up.
A scanner works best for most projects (just wiping the glass regularly).
Use a camera in a pinch.
Order our book, Downsizing with Family History in Mind, for more tips for those facing family history downsizing challenges.
