When scanning with a Nikon Super Coolscan 9000 I know that it comes with Nikon software... but one can also use Silverfast or ViewScan... or even CS3 to control the scanner?

Which is the best way to do it. I have a few 100 35mm and B&W images to scan and the whole process seeems a bit arcane to me.

Which software is best... do you correct before the final scan or adjust the scan in CS3 after the fact?

Anyone have advice on how to best hit the ground running.. so to speak??

With the 9000, for mounted slides, you'll use the FH-835M film holder - it takes 5 slides at once.

Using Nikonscan 4.0.2 is fine, does a good job. Clean it up in Photoshop.

Set the scan to 4,000dpi; 16 bit; Normal/Fine for ICE; Sampling 1x or 2x and do a few test scans first. For 35mm the files at these settigns would be about 100mb.

You can scan all 5 frames at a time. Good luck!

On most scanners in this range, the manufacturers software is fairly primitive, and aftermarket software is a must, but not so in the case of the Nikons. The Nikon software is first rate.

Any idea of the file size of full res 16 bit 6X6 color scans?

Can the FH-869GR rotating holder be used to scan 120-3 frame strips?

Also... can an unmounted 35mm transparancy be scanned in the 120 glass carrier? I have some 35mm's in Gepe mounts that will have to be removed from the mounts to scan.

Thanks.

16 bit 6x6 4000dpi would be over 400mb each

I believe the rotating holder holds a strip of film - just check, not sure.

No, unmounted 35mm film must go into the FH-835S holder.

Good luck.

Nikon Scan software is pants in comparison to Silverfast AI studio. Importantly Silverfast AI Studio comes with an IT8 calibrated slide to create a profile for the scanner - easy procedure in Silverfast's software.

Nikon Views colour management is poor. I have been scanning for 12 years, using Imacon scanners, and three Nikon scanners. When I purchase a Nikon scanner I leave Nikon Scan software in the box. Profiling your scanner will save you a great deal of time and is superior to the Mickey Mouse colour management options provided by Nikon Scan software under its prefs.

Silverfast multi exposure option is less damaging to the image than Nikon's multiple exposure option that slightly degrades the image as it re-scans the same data time and again and pulsates in the course of doing so. Silverfast ME option doesn't cause a slight loss of sharpness, as Nikon Scan's ME function does, with the added benefit of slightly increased dynamic range, although the advantages are subtle over a straight scan.

http://www.silverfast.com/highlights/multi-exposure/en.html

www.golfpicturebank.com

I hear Leopard does not support Silverfast. I also hear Rosetta is required for certain OS versions. What can 9000 owners do if they upgrade to a MacPro? Does anyone know if Silverfast plans to make the software work in Leopard/Intel-based Macs?