Film Scan Sizes Explained: M vs L and Which One You Actually Need
“Bigger” is not always better in film scanning. The best scan size depends on what you’re doing next: client delivery, editorial, big prints, exhibition output, or long-term archiving. Here’s a simple way to choose between Size M and Size L without guessing.
Choose M for most work and normal printing. Choose L when you’re printing large, cropping heavily, building an archive, or you want the maximum file for grading and future-proofing.
What “M” and “L” mean at wescan.film
Our scan sizes are based on real-world results we’ve tested extensively. They’re designed to give you the best balance of detail, tonality, and file size for professional use.
| Film format | Size M | Size L | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35mm (135) | ~4000px (short side) | ~6000px (short side) | Client delivery (M), big prints/cropping (L) |
| 120 / medium format | ~8000px (6cm side) | ~13,000px (6cm side) | Editorial (M), exhibition/archiving (L) |
| Sheet film (4×5, 5×7, 8×10) | ~8000px (short side) | ~13,000px (short side) | Most prints (M), maximum capture (L) |
You can always ask us to scan for a specific end use. If you give us the target print size and DPI, we can adjust scan size and pricing accordingly. For the latest pricing, see film scan prices and scan sizes.
When Size M is the smart choice
- Most client work: plenty of detail, faster to upload/download, easier to archive.
- Editorial and web: clean files with strong tonal depth without turning into multi-GB workflows.
- Normal prints: albums, framed prints, and typical wall sizes rarely need the maximum scan.
When Size L is worth it
- Large prints or exhibitions: the extra pixels matter when viewing distance gets close.
- Heavy cropping: wildlife, street, tight portraits, or “fix it in crop” compositions.
- Archiving key frames: the once-in-a-lifetime negatives you want to future-proof.
A real-world reference (what “big” actually looks like)
If you want to see what a truly large file looks like, check our high resolution drum scan sample. That post shows a real 6×7 scan plus 25%, 50%, and 100% crops so you can judge detail with your own eyes.
Don’t forget: negatives need conversion
Scan size and conversion are different decisions. Slides are already “positive”. Colour negatives and many B&W negatives need conversion. If you’re deciding between scan-only files and converted delivery, read negative conversion for drum scans.
If you’re unsure: order M for most frames, and reserve L for a small selection of hero images. That’s usually the best cost-to-quality ratio.
Ready to order?
If you want the full workflow details, see drum scanning services. When you’re ready, place an order here: order film scans. Questions first? contact us.
