Drum scan example • Portra 400 • 120 film • 6×7
Kodak Portra 400 drum scan example (6×7 medium format, 120 film)
This post shows a Kodak Portra 400 drum scan from 120 film (6×7 cm), delivered at 10,000px on the short edge. The negative was converted manually in Photoshop and then color graded to taste, keeping the film look intact without adding a “scanner signature.”
Why this frame is a good drum scan test: it combines a large, subtle sky (easy to band), textured water (easy to smear), and delicate skin tones (easy to shift green or magenta). A clean drum scan keeps transitions smooth and grain intact.
What “10,000px short edge” means in real life
Delivering this 6×7 drum scan at 10,000px on the short edge gives you a file that holds up for large prints, comfortable cropping, and archival use. The goal is not just resolution. It’s keeping micro-detail and grain structure without aggressive sharpening or noise reduction.
If you’re deciding what output size to order, use this guide: film scan sizes (M vs L).
Manual negative conversion in Photoshop
This file was converted manually in Photoshop. That gives precise control over neutrals and highlights, especially in skies and skin. It also makes it easier to avoid color casts that can show up when profiles are pushed too hard.
For delivery options and workflow differences, read: negative conversion for drum scans: scan-only vs converted files.
What to look for in a Portra 400 drum scan
- Sky gradients: smooth transitions with no steps, bands, or blotchy color patches.
- Grain: visible and consistent, not smeared into “paste” by heavy cleanup.
- Skin tones: clean and believable, with stable highlights and neutral shadows.
- Edge + border: film border included proves you’re seeing the full frame, not a cropped reinterpretation.
Why 6×7 medium format still feels different
A Mamiya RZ67 frame has that classic medium-format separation without looking overly “digital shallow.” With a careful Portra 400 drum scan, you keep the calm tonal transitions and the natural texture that make 120 film look like 120 film.
FAQ
Is this a drum scan or a flatbed scan?
This example is presented as a drum scan workflow reference, with manual Photoshop conversion and a high-resolution output.
Why include the film border?
It shows the scan is full frame and helps verify edge sharpness and consistency across the negative.
Do I need 10,000px on the short edge?
Not always. It’s most useful for large prints, heavy cropping, or archival files. Smaller output sizes can be enough for modest print needs.
What’s the advantage of manual negative conversion?
Manual conversion gives better control over neutrals, highlights, and skin tones, helping avoid color casts while keeping a natural film look.
Want to compare this to another 6×7 reference? See: high-resolution drum scan sample (6×7 Portra 400).
