Adobe CS4 Design

While many scanners have a button on them somewhere that can be pushed to simply scan a document, another method of scanning that gives the user more control is to scan documents and pictures using the Photoshop software in Adobe Creative Suite 4. Using this method allows the user to select a variety of preferences when creating a scanned digital file and automatically opens the file into Photoshop after it is done scanning and it is ready for alterations and enhancements.

1. Wipe off any dust or particles that may be in the scanner to ensure the best quality, then place the item to be scanned into scanner and position it as desired.
2. Step 2

   Open Photoshop CS4 by double-clicking on the Photoshop CS4 icon, either in the start menu, on the desktop or in the application folder.

3. Step 3

   Select the drop-down menu named “File” in the upper left corner of the window, then slide down the menu and select “Import”. A pop-out window will slide out with the names of any devices–including scanners–that are installed on that computer. Look for either the name of the scanner or, if not available, look for something with the word “twain” in its title. Select the name.

4. Step 4

   Select the desired resolution settings in the scanner customization window that pops up. This window will vary somewhat depending on the brand of the scanner and how it was installed, but all scanning software have basic standards that include resolution, color mode and other customizations.

5. Step 5

   Select the desired color mode settings. Many scanners will allow the option of scanning in color or in various shades of gray as well as line art.

6. Step 6

   Select any other desired settings, depending on the availability of options and then select the “preview” button or “prescan”. This will do a fast scan of the item and give you a preview so you can check your settings and positioning.

7. Step 7

   Select the “scan” button when your settings are correct. This will start the scanning process window, which will indicate when the process is completed and the new scanned file will appear in the Photoshop window as a new document.

8. Step 8

   Save the file by selecting the “File” menu and then selecting “Save.” A new window will pop up that will give you the opportunity to name the file and navigate through the folders to find the one that you want to store the scan in.