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All scanned image files contain some imperfections
or "artefacts" - particles of dust, small fibres,
grain clusters, scratches and the like - which need to be
removed before the image file is used. They appear dark on
transparency scans and light on negative scans.
Load the image in your favourite image editing
program (I use Photoshop CS2) and zoom-in to 100% magnification.
Start in one corner and work your way methodically around
the image cleaning each 'panel' as you go. Always work on
small areas so that you can easily step back in the history
panel if you make a mistake
For flat areas with little or no detail
the Healing Brush (Photoshop 7 and later) is an good choice.
Select a small brush and sample (alt-click) an area close
to the artefact with a similar tone. Move the brush to cover
the 'blob' and click - it will disappear. Move on to the next
one.
For more complex areas, the clone tool is
best. Again, work on a small scale and try to sample from
areas of similar colour and pattern. You may need to zoom-in
and use a smaller brush from time to time, especially when
repairing scratches or working in areas of regular patterns.
Pay particular attention to light areas
in the image, especially the sky and pale backgrounds. Also
check carefully around the edges of the image where small
fibres can be trapped.
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