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Abstract

The invention provides a method and apparatus for embedding hidden data in digital images created from scanning developed photographic film. A film development system develops exposed photographic film to produce developed photographic film. A scanner then scans the developed film to produce a digital image. Film properties are extracted from the developed film, such as the dimensions of the image and/or the graininess or other attributes associated with the image on the film. These properties are stored in memory of a programmed computer system, which includes a digital watermark encoder for embedding information in digital images. The digital watermark encoder reads the film properties and possibly other input parameters supplied by a user, and in response, embeds associated information into the digital image. The embedding process modifies pixel values of the digital image to embed the associated information. Preferably, the modifications to the pixel values are slight so that they do not substantially alter the quality of the digital image. The digital image may be printed, in which case, the embedded information is invisible in the printed image. The digital image may also be stored in a portable storage device, such as a CD, or transmitted electronically over a network, such as the Internet. A variety of data may be embedded in the image, including authentication information, sound data, film speed, exposure information, etc.

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First Claim