Sources of Digital Images
There are increasing numbers of digital image files available, already scanned and retouched. These are available from various sources including the Internet.
Issues involved include search methods (low resolution preview files are needed), compression, storage and transmission (file sizes need to be controlled), color management (different platforms and output devices) and copyright protection.
Digital Photography - As mentioned earlier, a digital camera is essentially a live scene scanner. Digital images can be retouched and combined electronically.
- Digital cameras use CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) just as desktop scanners do to capture images.
- A wide range of resolutions and prices are currently available (from 552 x 760 for a few hundred dollars to 6000 x 7250 for tens of thousands of dollars)
- Available in compact, single-lens reflex (SLR) and large format varieties.
Picture Libraries - Being made available in digital form. On-line searching and downloading.
Copyright-free images - Distributed on CDs with no restrictions. (e.g. Corel Professional Collection.) Single fee. Often significantly cheaper than picture libraries.