Using a Nikon D5300 with the Micro Nikkor 40mm lens and an adaptor for slides and negatives, here’s how to optimize your settings for digitizing:
Settings Recommendations:
1. Aperture (f-stop):
- f/14 is a reasonable choice, as it ensures good depth of field to keep the slide or negative sharp. However, on DX sensors, diffraction can soften images slightly beyond f/11. You could try f/8 to f/11 and compare sharpness to f/14.
2. ISO:
- Stick with ISO 100 for minimal noise and the best dynamic range.
3. Shutter Speed:
- With backlighting and a steady setup (tripod or stand), 1/200s is fine. The key is to ensure no vibration or movement. If you’re using the backlight at maximum and the adapter eliminates ambient light, this should be sufficient.
4. White Balance:
- Use a custom white balance:
- Set a neutral slide or white diffuser on the backlight.
- Use the camera’s custom white balance setting to measure the light source.
- Alternatively, shoot in Auto White Balance (AWB) and fine-tune in post-processing (recommended if shooting in RAW).
5. File Format:
- Use NEF (RAW) with 12-bit if you’re prioritizing file size, or 14-bit for maximum tonal range (better for recovering highlights and shadows).
- Shooting in RAW allows you to adjust white balance and exposure non-destructively in post-processing.
6. Focus:
- Use manual focus for precision.
- Zoom in on the live view to focus precisely on the film grain or detail.
7. Picture Control:
- Set to Neutral or Flat for less contrast and saturation, preserving details for post-processing.
8. Other Settings:
- Metering Mode: Center-weighted or Spot (focused on the slide/negative).
- Noise Reduction: Turn off High ISO NR; it doesn’t apply to ISO 100.
- Vibration Reduction (VR): Disable if using a tripod or copy stand.
Additional Tips:
- Test and Adjust: Check histograms and ensure there are no clipped highlights or shadows. Adjust exposure compensation if needed.
- Post-Processing: When scanning negatives, you’ll need software like GIMP to invert colors and adjust levels. For slides, you’ll primarily adjust exposure and colors.
- Lighting Consistency: Ensure the backlight is evenly diffused to avoid hot spots or color casts.
Summary of Current Settings:
- Aperture Priority Mode: Fine
- Aperture: Start at f/8 or f/11, compare with f/14.
- ISO: 100
- Shutter Speed: 1/200s (adjust if needed).
- RAW: Yes, 12-bit or 14-bit.
- White Balance: Custom or AWB (adjust in post).
Let me know if you’d like further help with post-processing!