Advice on Scanning and Image Size:
The minimum requirement for submitting photos is a small scanned image of the photo (e.g., jpg, gif, pict, or other file
type) that I can post on the site. This should be 150dpi (dots per square inch). I will over-print the picture
with the title "Ewbank Family Photos" to discourage unauthorized use. When someone contacts me and identifies themself as
a descendant I will e-mail the photo to them and inform you. This size is only appropriate for viewing on a computer
screen.
A larger scanned copy of the photo is necessary for producing high quality printed copies. A density
of 300dpi is comparable to magazine quality and has worked well for me. It can be sent as a jpg file with a minimal
degree of compression. However, this is only adequate for reproducing the photo at its original size. For example,
if you want to print an 8x10 of a photo that is 4x5, you need to double the density.
This higher quality can be sent to Ofoto (which is run by Kodak*) free of charge. Then individuals with the
correct password can view the picture and order copies at very low prices (an 8x10 inch prints are currently available
for $3.99 or less). If you are willing to share this with cousins, I am willing to handle the distribution and
send a password (without charge) to anyone who identifies themselves as a descendant. I will notify you of any requests for
photos you submitted. If you prefer, I can list you as the contact person or I can forward all requests to you.
Alternatively, you can post the photos at Ofoto.com or a similar site and I will forward requests to you.
Ideally, we would all like to have our most important family photos preserved in archival-quality prints.
Cousin Lynn Ewbank informs me that the Arkansas History Commission (where she is an archivist) recommends grey-scale
8-bit black and whites with 4000pixels on the longer side. For standard size prints this amounts to:
35mm neg or transparency 2600
dpi 4000x2600 pixels
4x5 print, neg. or transparency 800
dpi 4000x3200 pixels
5x7 p, n, t
570 dpi 4000x2850 pixels
8x10 p, n, t
400 dpi 4000x3200 pixels
These are higher quality scans than you can make on the typical family scanner. Even
the 300 dpi may be a problem. However, many full-service copy centers offer scanning. Kinkos
apparently offers two approaches: a per-scan price and a do-it-yourself hourly rate. Ask them to save the scans on a
CD in TIF format.
Contact me if you want more information or if you have photos you might want to share.
I am willing to work out a distribution plan that you are comfortable with.
