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Determine Front and Back Of Slides

Don't Overthink This—We'll Make It Simple

We know identifying slide fronts and backs can be confusing. We've been helping customers navigate this since 2002, and we've refined our explanation to make it as clear as possible. Here's what matters:

The golden rule: The side with the LOGO (Kodak, Fuji, etc.) is the FRONT of the slide. This is also the side that faces the screen during projection.

Don't worry about text appearing backwards when you hold slides up to light. We'll ensure your final scans display correctly on your TV, computer, or prints. We just need everyone using the same standard for preparation.

Visual Guide: Front vs. Back

This is the FRONT of the slide—also the side that faces the screen during projection

Back of slide showing plain side that light shines through during projection — **This is the BACK** of the slide—when using a projector, light shines through this side

Back of slide showing minimal text like Made in USA or date stamp — The back usually has minimal text—maybe "Made in USA," a date, or number

Easy identification—you can clearly see the film type and logo on the front

Looking through back of slide text in photo reads correctly — When looking through the BACK of the slide, any text in the photo reads correctly

Slide mount marked This Side Towards Screen indicating the front — **"This Side Towards Screen"** marking identifies the FRONT of the slide

The Reflection Test (When Logos Aren't Clear)

Note: This reflection method works for most slides, though some can be tricky. When in doubt, go with "logo side = front."

Slide back showing sharp shiny reflection when light hits surface — **Testing for the BACK:** Place slide on a table under light—sharp, clear reflection means it's the back

Still confused? Place the slide on a table or book so you can't see through it. Turn on a light above it. Look at the reflection: sharp reflection = BACK. Dull or blurry reflection = FRONT (emulsion side).

Slide front showing dull matte emulsion surface with no sharp reflection — **This is the FRONT**—dull, not shiny. This is the emulsion side where the image was exposed

The FRONT (emulsion side) is where the camera shutter opened and light exposed the image onto the film. Everything appears reversed on this side—signs and numbers read backwards. Some slides even have "This side faces the Screen" printed on the front/emulsion side.

Why This Matters

Consistent orientation ensures efficient scanning and prevents mix-ups. Many people naturally organize slides the opposite way we need them, which causes delays. By following this simple standard (logo side = front), we can process your slides quickly and correctly.

Remember: Don't stress about backwards text when checking slides. We handle all the digital rotation after scanning. Just give us the slides with logos facing the way we've described, and we'll take care of everything else.

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