Quick Question About Your Stamp Images

do most of you utilize a scanner for images or are most of you using a digital microscope I see advertised. just wondering what most of you use for capturing images for your collection, sharing etc.

lastly any recomendations on what is a good product to invest in?

I currently have an old EPSOn perfection V5000 photo scanner with digital ICE technology. Probably way more machine than I need but was given to me many years ago.

Are the scopes a good investment these days?

Thanks for your guidance.

Colonel

I have the same model Epson scanner you do and use it for all my scanning needs including scans for ebay. I see no reason to change.

I have a digital microscope as well, but don't use it for stamps or covers - cost around $30. I can see someone using it to flyspeck or other such use, but not a viable device for larger items like covers or groups of stamps.

Epson Perfevtion V500 and V550 are perfectly fine. I use those for all of my images.

The only time I break out a USB microscope is if I need a closeup of a 1st issue silk thread.

Yes, a scanner. Microscope seldom does the entire stamp image well, but is good for fly specking.

The Epson V500 is what I own and use...great images of my stamp collection..i usually scan at 1200dpi.

Hi colonel,

Color reproduction and image detail are very important to me for my stamp images. I've tried DSLR photography for stamp images, but it's too hard to get consistent color reproduction and clarity.

I've tried Canon and Epson scanners over the past 20 years, and Epson scanners have always outperformed Canon for my needs. I'm currently using an Epson Perfection V370 Photo scanner.

Here's a 1200 DPI image of a US Scott #296 acquired with the V370:

Here is the same stamp on my Epson-3620, an amazing piece of technology considering it prints too and costs under 100 USD.

Scanners are also great for scanning documents, and converting them to PDF. Who needs a fax when you can email a higher-quality reproduction.

Thank you all for your guidance. Will stick to the scanner and use the scope money for some new revenue stamps. if any in Massachusettes see you and WALPex stamp show this weekend.

colonel