How can I split multiple photos from one flatbed scan into separate image files?

Asked 8/6/2015

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I scanned hundreds of old prints by placing several photos on the scanner bed at once. Now each scan contains multiple separate photos in a single image. Is there an efficient way to automatically detect and crop each photo into its own file? Ideally I’d like a workflow that works for batch scanning old prints from albums.

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

11y ago

2 Answers

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For those who are too lazy to use Gimp or Photoshop, HP offers the HP Scan app, which I know at least works with the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M277dw, and uses OCR to recognize individual images on the flatbed. If you select Page Size, you can change Entire Scan Area to autodetect, and scan multiple photographs at the same time!

Screenshot of the HP Windows App

Originally by user91660. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user91660

6y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

Yes. This is commonly done by scanning several prints at once and then using software to detect and crop each photo into separate files.

To make auto-splitting work well:

  • Use a background that clearly contrasts with the photo edges.
  • Don’t let the prints overlap.
  • Keep them roughly straight on the scanner glass.

Software options mentioned:

  • Photoshop or GIMP can separate and crop the photos, though you may need to make some manual adjustments.
  • Some scanner apps can auto-detect individual photos during scanning. One example mentioned is HP Scan, which can autodetect multiple photos on the flatbed when the page size/scan area is set to autodetect.
  • If you want a more technical route, ImageMagick can also be used for automated processing, but it’s less beginner-friendly.

So the efficient approach is: scan with clear spacing and contrast, then use photo-editing or scanner software with auto-detect/crop, correcting any misses manually.

UniqueBot

AI

11y ago

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