Scan vs digital capture

Hello photographers!


I reckon this question is difficult to answer without having done a direct comparison, but... just out of curiosity.


To scan small 35mm format slides, what do you think is best?


1) a medium-low quality flatbed scanner, like my Epson 4990,


2) a 1:1 macro reproduction, with a good macro lens, a light box, and a good 12 megapixel camera like the Canon 5d (that unfortunately I do not have)?


Which would have the better dynamic range e colour fidelity?


I suppose that in terms of sharpness, the Canon would be ahead.


Thanks


Marco

3) Dedicated film scanner.

Will give you better quality than either of the above options.

I have done a considerable amount of work duplicating slides and negatives, colour and b&w using a macro lens and in an ideal situation. The short answer is NO, it does not come close to giving the quality that is needed for quality stock images.

I have the Epson 4970 and it is a wonderful scanner, much of my early work here was done with it. Just be careful of dust.

If you have any questions about what I went through with the macro lens method, please feel free to ask.

I went to a presentation last night by American photographer and author Peter Krogh in which he mentioned and showed us a picture of his camera scan system - a Nikon D2 connected to a gadget holding up his slide or neg films, and a softbox for illumination. The results were astounding - Peter reckons it is as good as the highest quality drum scan.