Use Your Scanner to Create Art

Using a scanner for the purposes of creating art - scanner art - is not necessarily the reason that scanners were introduced in the first place, so it may come as something of a novel idea. The flatbed scanner was in fact created simply to copy text documents and photographs, a little bit like a photocopier does. The scanner is also good however at taking what is known as hyper-real photographs of objects in 3 dimensions. This is a process termed scanography or scanner photography, to name but two.

If you are interested in learning further about this and perhaps investing in a scanner for art, you will be happy to know that many keen hobbyists enjoy working with the cheaper-end scanners, such as the Epson Perfection range, which are currently available for less than $100. It's a similar process actually, to the old trick of sitting atop the Xerox machine taking photocopies of the "rear end". But in this case of course, we are not taking pictures of the rear end, and besides, the results are much better, and chances are - more attractive too!

Popular subject matter includes fruit, leaves, flowers, vegetables, and many other things besides. Almost any three-dimensional object is game for scanning. These can be used in photographic art works for the home, office, websites, eBay, projects the kids have at school. You name it! Any where photography is required, it can be replaced by some form of scanner art.

And the fact that most people have never even heard of scanner art is what makes it so intriguing. You can produce images that are different than your standard photograph will will make the final product unique.

So how is it done? Simple! Pop the item you wish to scan on top of the scanner be, without closing down the lid. Turn out the lights and try to locate the Start button. If you can't locate the Start button, turn on the lights to locate the Start button and turn off the lights again and now hit the Start button and voila! You have yourself some scanner art.

You will see just how clear the results are on your computer screen. Even bits of dust will show up. If this is the case for you and you actually want to try selling your scanner art (yes, selling is popular these days) then touch it up using a software program such as Paint Shop Pro, Photoshop or the free and excellent equivalent - "Gimp".

Source : Ezinearticles