Combining multiple scans into a single image in Photoshop is straightforward, primarily using the Photomerge feature. This method is ideal for stitching together scans of large artwork or documents that exceed your scanner's bed size.
Using Photoshop's Photomerge for Scan Combination
Photomerge is a powerful tool designed specifically for this task. It automatically aligns and blends overlapping images, creating a seamless final image. Here’s how to use it:
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Scan your artwork: Ensure sufficient overlap between your scans to aid the stitching process. The amount of overlap depends on the image content and complexity; a larger overlap is better for more accurate alignment and stitching. Set your scanner settings to the highest resolution your scanner can handle for the best image quality.
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Open Photomerge: In Photoshop, navigate to
File > Automate > Photomerge. -
Select your scans: Use the "Browse" button to select all the scan files you wish to combine. You should see your scan file names listed in the Photomerge window.
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Choose your layout (optional): Photomerge offers different layout options. For scans of a continuous image, "Auto" is usually sufficient.
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Start the process: Click "OK." Photoshop will automatically process the images, aligning and blending them based on overlapping areas.
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Review and edit: Once complete, review the merged image. You might need minor adjustments to perfectly align areas or remove any minor artifacts. You can accomplish this by manually adjusting layers if needed.
Example: If you scanned a large painting in four sections, ensuring overlap between each scan, Photomerge will automatically combine these four scans into a single image.
Alternative Methods for Combining Scans
While Photomerge is the most efficient method for most scenarios, you can use other methods for simple cases, especially if only two scans need combining:
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Manual Alignment and Blending: Open all your scans as separate layers in Photoshop. Manually align them using transformation tools (like
Move ToolorFree Transform) and blend using layer masks for smoother transitions. This method offers more control but requires more manual effort and understanding of layer masks. This method is helpful when scans do not significantly overlap. -
Using other software: Some other software packages (outside of Photoshop) might allow for a more direct method of image stitching. However, it is typically recommended to perform such tasks in an image editor with image manipulation capabilities.
Remember to save your final combined image in a suitable format (e.g., TIFF, PSD) to preserve image quality.
