Have you ever wondered how to improve the quality of your organization's ID photos and make the process easier? If you're like some, you have a complicated process for taking pictures.
- Take the subject's picture with your digital camera.
- Download the file from the camera and upload it to a computer using a variety of methods.
- Open the picture in a photo editing application where you crop, resize, and adjust it to fit in the template in your ID card software program.
- Import the picture into your ID card software program.
- Spend some time getting it just right in your template.
- Now print the ID card or badge.
This is where a TWAIN compliant digital camera comes in handy.
What is TWAIN?
TWAIN is an application programming interface (API) that regulates how digital imaging devices like a camera communicates with a software program. What this means in layman's terms is TWAIN drivers let you connect a digital camera directly to your ID card software program.
If you have a TWAIN compliant digital camera, you get a "live feed" of what the camera is seeing in the picture part of your ID card software program. What makes it so convenient is, with the click of a mouse, you take the picture from your software, and it's instantly attached to that ID in your database.
Benefits of a TWAIN compliant camera
Instead of moving between your camera and your computer, you take the photo while sitting in front of your computer. Also, some cameras have facial recognition functionality that automatically focuses on your subject's face. It then cuts and crops to get the size needed, and puts it in your ID card template, all with the click of a mouse. With this method, it doesn't matter if people stand too close or too far away from the camera. The software provides a consistent look to all of your ID cards and badges.
You get a better image quality with a TWAIN camera. Most webcams have only 1.3 megapixels, which is less than the average smartphone. Pictures with webcams often come out dark and fuzzy, while a TWAIN digital camera has 10 megapixels or more, ensuring a quality photo.
TWAIN compliant cameras work with multiple operating systems including Mac OS, Windows, and Linux. You'll get compatibility between your software and camera, regardless of what computer or laptop you use.
Finally, TWAIN compatible cameras and ID printing software help you skip all those extra steps between taking photo ID pictures and printing out your cards. You control everything from your computer. It couldn't be easier.
TWAIN digital cameras available
You have your choice of TWAIN digital cameras that will make your badging and ID process simple and more convenient. Here are a few of the top sellers:
- ValCam Camera with Pan, Tilt, and Zoom. The ValCam gives you full control in your ID software of the zoom, pan, and tilt functions. It makes it easy to get your subject framed and even easier to get quality pictures for your IDs and badges. The ValCam also includes all the high-quality features you expect in a digital camera like white balance and flash options. So, regardless of the lighting conditions, you'll get the perfect shot.
- Canon A810 Camera with TWAIN Drive and Capture Software. You get automatic face detection, cropping, image resizing, and picture enhancements with this TWAIN compliant camera. Besides everything you would expect in a Canon camera, it comes with capture software that enables full control of everything you can do with the camera.
- Videology USB Flash Megapixel Color Box Camera. Another TWAIN compliant digital camera, the Videology Box Camera features high definition resolution for consistent, quality images in just about any environment. You also get a synchronized USB powered LED flash to help you can the best pictures possible.
Final thoughts
If you're interested in upgrading to a TWAIN compliant ID camera, Idesco has a variety of brands from which to choose. Call one of our experts today at 212-889-2530. We'll walk you through each camera and help you make an informed decision about the best camera at the best price for your ID card and badging program.