SilverFast
Professional SilverFast scanning software for film digitization and color-accurate image processing, developed by LaserSoft Imaging since 1986.
What is SilverFast
SilverFast provides specialized scanner software and image processing solutions for professional film digitization and analog image conversion. Founded in 1986 by physicist Karl-Heinz Zahorsky in Kiel, Germany, LaserSoft Imaging has developed SilverFast as the sole provider of prosumer scanner calibration solutions, occupying an uncontested market niche while competitors like Datacolor and X-Rite focus on printer and display calibration.
The company maintains its market presence through strategic OEM partnerships with scanner manufacturers. In October 2025, SilverFast Ai Studio 9 was bundled with Plustek's OpticFilm 135i Ai scanner, demonstrating the platform's established role as a premium scanning software provider through hardware manufacturer relationships.
Recent third-party validation came in January 2026 when Shadow and Light Magazine reviewed SilverFast Ai Studio, highlighting SilverFast's advanced capabilities including patented Multi Exposure technology and 64-bit HDRi-Raw capture. The review positioned SilverFast software as targeting photographers with 15+ years of experience maintaining significant film archives.
SilverFast's infrared Smart Removal of Defects (iSRD) technology and patented IT8 calibration system target professional photographers, archivists, and film enthusiasts requiring accurate color reproduction for vintage materials and analog artwork digitization.
How SilverFast Software Works
- Patented Multi Exposure Technology: Enhanced dynamic range for challenging lighting conditions
- Infrared Smart Removal of Defects (iSRD): Automatic dust and scratch removal using infrared channels
- IT8 Calibration: Patented color accuracy system with Auto IT8 calibration
- 64-bit HDRi-Raw Format: Professional format preserving infrared channel information
- Intelligent Frame Finding: Automatic frame detection for batch processing
- NegaFix Technology: Film-specific profiles for over 120 film types including Kodachrome
- Job Monitor Mobile App: iOS/Android progress tracking for network-connected scanning
- HDR Studio: Companion software for advanced image processing
- WorkflowPilot: Guided scanning process with batch automation
SilverFast Applications
Professional Film Archive Digitization
Photography studios implement SilverFast Ai Studio's calibrated color profiles and specialized Kodachrome processing for archive-quality film conversion. The patented Multi Exposure technology handles challenging lighting conditions while maintaining professional workflow efficiency through automated batch processing.
Vintage Material Restoration
Archivists leverage SilverFast's unique position as the only prosumer scanner calibration solution for reproducing vintage print materials. The enhanced iSRD dust and scratch removal technology ensures restoration quality for damaged analog materials.
High-Volume Professional Scanning
Professional users utilize SilverFast's Intelligent Frame Finding and Job Monitor mobile app for efficient large-scale digitization projects, monitoring progress remotely while maintaining consistent color accuracy across collections.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Supported Platforms | Windows, macOS |
| Scanner Compatibility | Flatbed, film, drum scanners via OEM partnerships |
| Color Management | IT8 calibration, Auto IT8, ICC profiles |
| Bit Depth | 48-bit color, 16-bit grayscale |
| HDRi Format | 64-bit with infrared channel |
| Film Profiles | 120+ film types including Kodachrome |
| Mobile Monitoring | iOS/Android Job Monitor app |
| Calibration Targets | $100-120 dedicated targets |
| Software Pricing | Ai Studio: $178 |
| Licensing | Perpetual with optional upgrades |
Resources
Company Information
- Website: silverfast.com
- Company: LaserSoft Imaging AG
- Headquarters: Kiel, Germany
- Founded: 1986