The Lomography DigitaLIZA Max Helps Make Negative Scanning Easier

DigitaLIZA Max Scanning In Action
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While I’m a big advocate of shooting film and experimenting with your photography, I understand the reluctance to do so – especially if it means “missing out” on sharing your photos with all your friends, family, and/or fans on social media. For the most part, scanning your film negatives requires either expensive equipment, jerry-rigging lights, and your digital camera, or paying for scans with your developer (here’s a story about a really Nice one we know). For those that don’t own a “proper” camera and are not interested in buying expensive scanning gear but want to scan their negatives, the DigitaLIZA from Lomography is something to look out for.

Lomography DigitaLIZA Max – Tech Specs Via Lomography.com

  • Base Plate
  • LED Light & 120 mm film holder
  • 35mm film holder
  • Scannable Film Size: 35 mm with Sprockets, 35 mm, 120, 127
  • Scanning Device: Mobile Phone, DSLR Cameras, Mirrorless Cameras

Let’s Roll Out

DigitaLIZA Max Plate & LED Lightbox

What instantly drew me to this particular piece of equipment was the novelty of having a dedicated scanning work area that could easily be adapted for use with a camera or smartphone. In years past, my scanning workflow included negatives held up by cheap dollar store picture frame glass and empty packages as a base. This approach left much to be desired with respect to consistent quality and not leaving a mess everywhere I worked.

iPhone scan of 35mm Negative on DigitaLIZA Max

The DigitaLIZA Max worked is a much neater, extremely intuitive scanner that lets you prep, scan, and repeat with the greatest of ease. The modular bracket allows you to position your smartphone at the perfect distance to ensure a clean capture every time. I’m a fan of the LED base and diffuser that keeps light where you need it (behind the negative) without hotspots or spill light.

It’s not without its flaws to be sure; for one the leader mechanism on the 35mm holder didn’t always engage right away making me extra cautious when switching negative strips. The roller knob used to advance the feeder also didn’t feel quite right – often requiring more or less torque between shots. Granted, this is an extremely picky pain point but one that you should know going into the experience.

Who’s This For?

The DigitaLIZA is without a doubt meant for those of us that live by the #StayBrokeShootFilm ethos. If you’re casually into shooting film or have no interest in shooting film, this metal and plastic contraption sounds like a waste. For those of us that know better, the DigitaLIZA is a great way for analog lovers to digitize their negatives whether they own a high-resolution camera or if they just own a smartphone.

You can order the DigitaLIZA Max (our test unit) for $99 from Lomography or checkout Max’s smaller sibling, the DigitaLIZA+.