Choosing a camera

The SlideSnap Pro is a universal platform accepting the majority of modern DSLR cameras. We recommend a 12 megapixel or greater sensor (for 3000PPI > ). In order for the SlideSnap to communicate with your camera, it MUST have a hardwire shutter release port. 99% of DSLRs do, but if you are in doubt, google the name of your camera followed by “wired shutter release remote”. 

While we provide thorough instructions on setup and use of the SlideSnap, dimensions, menus and functionality can vary greatly from camera to camera. It is assumed that you have a working knowledge of your camera and photographic principles. It is your responsibility to confirm that your camera is compatible before committing to an order. Returns will not be accepted on the grounds of camera incompatibility. If you are unsure, simply contact us!

Full frame bodies have a larger sensor area causing the image to look somewhat backed out requiring a longer focal length lens or a closer shooting distance. If you want to use a full frame body, choose this option at checkout and we will modify the SlideSnap to allow your lens to breach the projector body for a closer working distance. If you don’t know wether or not your camera is full frame, it probably isn’t :-), but you can contact us to be sure.

When buying a DSLR, you need only buy the body since you won’t need the kit lens for the SlideSnap.

Features to look for / prioritize

• Hardwire shutter release port (Required)
• Appropriate lens available with compatible mount type (Required)
• USB tethering support.
• Option to provide continuous power via AC Adapter / Power supply.
• Generous number of autofocus points
• Large, high resolution LCD

Current camera recommendations

The list of cameras that work and produce excellent images is massive and nearly all encompassing as manufacturers annually release models with only marginal improvements. So our recommendations here aim to provide you with a good all around solution in terms of price, availability, known compatibility and image quality in a typical setup. It will likely only be updated once we know a model has been discontinued, or a successor with compelling features earns its place.

Nikon: D5500,5600 (24MP / 4600ppi@35mm)
Canon: T6i ,T7i,77D /  (24MP / 4600ppi@35mm)
Sony: a68 (24MP / 4600ppi@35mm)

Choosing a Lens

A prime macro lens is required. It must be compatible with your camera ( i.e Nikon cameras only accept lenses with Nikon mounts ). Should have a FIXED focal length between 85mm and 105mm. Note, however that 100/105mm lenses will result in some vignetting on 127 slides. For autofocus, an AF compatible lens should be chosen. Make sure your camera has a built in AF motor if your lens does not. Vibration reduction is not necessary and will be disabled for scanning. 

Current lens recommendations

Be sure to purchase with the correct mount / confirm compatibility.

Nikon : Tamron 90mm VC F017/ Nikon 85mm / Tamron 90mm Di
Canon : Tamron 90mm VC F017 / Canon 100mm IS / Canon 100mm / Tamron 90mm Di
Pentax : Pentax-D Fa 100mm
Sony : (A Mount) Tamron 90mm VC  / (E / FE Mount) Sony FE 90mm G OSS

Most major manufacturers offer a compatible lens for their camera line (Canon, Nikon Pentax etc.), but there are also competitively priced offerings from Tamron, Sigma and Tokina. Shop around. Consider KEH.com for serious discounts if you are comfortable with pre-owned.

Other Requirements

Memory Card: You will need a memory card of suitable capacity for untethered scanning. A general rule of thumb is 100-200 images per Gigabyte (for standard 18 megapixel large JPGs). Choose a quality brand (SanDisk, Samsung, PNY, Lexar, Sony etc.).

Otherwise, if you would like to shoot tethered (with the camera connected to a computer which receives the images directly), you will need a computer and suitable USB cable. See our tethering applications support page (after purchase) for software recommendations.

AC Adapter: Your camera will come with a battery which will generally last around 500 captures before needing a charge. An excellent option is to purchase a constant AC adapter power supply. The SlideSnap offers an extra AC socket for this purpose. Power supplies range from $30 to $120 depending on the model and wether or not it is OEM or third party. Simply search for your camera model followed by “AC Adapter”

Note: The SlideSnap Pro is manufactured with the intention of rapidly and accurately capturing natural digital images of slides. There is no built in dust or scratch removal ( i.e ICE ), however we do bundle a software dust and scratch removal solution with the system. Poor quality images will result in poor quality scans.