Enhancing or editing scans when selling

[Throttlesteer]

Has anyone purchased a card where the scan seems to have been processed to hide a flaw. Sometimes the color balance, brightness, or contrast is manipulated to make the borders seem more white. Or, it's purposely darkened to make the colors look less faded or washed out. Worst-case-scenario, flaws are actually photoshopped out.

I recently had a transaction that appears the photo was processed to make things more bright and vivid, with borders much whiter than in-person. It may not have been intentional, but cards usually look better in person...not worse. It could be like Dean's, where their scanner or camera just happens to make everything look psychedelic florescent.

I don't want out the seller by showing the scan vs. the actual card, in case they're on here. I'm not sure it was intentional, but I guess I should always look for the option to return.

[swarmee]

Yes, use the search to look for threads containing the Auburn Tigers loving family from Alabama who used to sell on eBay.

Sometimes it's unintentional. I know eBay has recently added a "magic" photo tool to improve the look of photographs in its listings. Could be someone just pressed the easy button and it set the contrast that way. You could also message the seller before purchasing for additional pictures taken with something in the background to show how the card actually looks.

[7nohitter]

Battlefield....and every other incarnation thereof.

'Nuff said.

[JollyElm]

Never for a moment think it is not purposeful. Sure, many sellers don't have any nefarious intent in cleaning up their auction images (like removing dust particles, etc.), but so many of those who dive into photoshop are deliberate in their intentions. They simply think the buyer won't be motivated enough to wade through the entire return process (and pay the postage) to send back the 'fake,' so it's a winning move for them. Pathetic.

[Johnny630]

If I have doubts or questions about a scan from a ebay seller I walk away. Nothing to see here keep searching lol.

[Fred]

I've seen scans of N172 (OJs) that have been enhanced to show a darker image for the card.