skipnord wrote:
I'm considering purchasing an Epson Perfection V600 scanner to scan my analog photos, color negatives and slides. I use an iMac 21. I would like to hear from any members that have specific experience with this scanner. Thanks in advance
I have used that setup.
The first key to success is to use a hardware and software kit from X-Rite or Datacolor to calibrate and custom profile your iMac monitor. (I use a Datacolor Spyder5Pro monthly, or sooner if I have a big batch of images to edit).
The second key is to read ALL the scanner documentation, especially anything you can find about using the scanner driver. The Epson scanner driver typically has two modes, Office and Professional. Use the Professional mode for photographic scans! Be sure you learn the meanings and use cases for all of the tools in the driver, because that's where you find all the quality and precision of the scanner.
Clean film first. Use a Giotto Rocket Blower Bulb, Dust-Off Canned Air, Staticmaster 1" Brush, Ilford Antistaticum cloths, and Photosol PEC-12 fluid, as needed, in order from safest to most effective.
Clean the scanner glass, but don't get any fluid underneath the edges! Just barely moisten a cleaning cloth with 91% Isopropyl alcohol and rub very gently. Allow it to dry.
Use the film holders that come with the scanner. Keep the film flat!
Scan for the largest print size you think you will make. Be aware that each time you double resolution, you quadruple scan time. If you scan 6400 dpi at 100%, your file will be capable of a 20x30. 3200 dpi at 100% will make a 10x15. (There is enough of a fudge factor in there to get a 24x36 or 12x18).
Scan to 16-bit TIFF files and edit them in ACR (Adobe Camera Raw) using Bridge, Lightroom CLASSIC CC, or Photoshop CC.) Or use the best 16-bit per color channel editor you have.
The V600 is a very capable scanner for the money. The quality of results is mostly up to you, and your knowledge and experience and finesse and care in using it.