Masks needed for wetmounting?

[menglert]

Hello,

I have all my things together for wetmounting on a flatbed, although I wanted to know if film masks are needed? Will I get better quality in some way with a mask, or can I go without them?

Regards,
Martin

[Doug Fisher]

I would definitely cut some for yourself. Masks can reduce flare around the edges of your scan. If you can find some black styrene sheet material, I have found that to be good masking material. It cuts easily and wipes clean if you get spills on it.

Doug
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www.BetterScanning.com

[menglert]

Hi Doug,

Thanks for the info. I'll have to check a few local stores and see if they carry something like that. I assume it is typical to mount the mask on the opposite side of the glass as the negative, as the negative will have the fluid and also mylar holding it down. Is this correct?

One other quick thing you might know, is it best to have the negative emulsion facing the scanner (lens & CCD) or away from the scanner?

Thanks,
Martin

[Doug Fisher]

Hi Martin -

I guess the safest answer is to recommend to run a test each way and see which works best for your method of wet mounting. With that said, if you use the mylar-fluid-film-fluid-glass "sandwich," the fluid should "fill in" the emulsion side of the film so that the scan resolution difference between the two sides of the film is minimal. Let us know how your tests come out.

My $.02,
Doug
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www.BetterScanning.com

[menglert]

Hi Doug,

Thanks for the advice. In fact, the method you describe is what I'm going to try. I picked up some washers today for shims, and hopefully will have some time soon to test things out. First I have to finish my computer and set up my network.

I'll have a follow up post with my findings.

Regards,
Martin