commonly asked questions
Photo Restoration, precision scanning and detail enhancement and hi resolution results
About Photo Restoration and why it is so much more than simply downloading an app on your phone.
Photo restoration is a meticulous process that involves reviving old, damaged, or faded photographs to their former glory. For those without experience, understanding the strategies involved can help appreciate the skill and justify the cost involved in hiring a professional. Here is an outline of the key strategies used in photo restoration:
1. Assessment of the Photograph
The first step in photo restoration is assessing the condition of the photograph. This involves:
Identifying damages: Checking for tears, scratches, fading, discoloration, or water damage.
Evaluating the paper quality: Understanding the paper type and age can affect restoration techniques.
Analyzing color loss or shifts: Determining the extent of fading or color changes over time.
2. Cleaning the Photograph
Before any digital work begins, the physical photograph may need cleaning:
Dust and debris removal: Carefully cleaning the surface to avoid additional damage.
Mold or mildew treatment: Addressing any biological growth that might be present.
3. Digital Scanning
Digital scanning is crucial for creating a high-quality digital copy:
High-resolution scanning: Ensuring the best possible detail is captured.
Color correction during scanning: Adjusting settings to capture true colors as much as possible.
4. Repairing Physical Damage
Once a digital copy is made, the restoration process begins:
Removing scratches and tears: Using software tools to digitally "heal" the image.
Reconstructing missing areas: Rebuilding parts of the image that may be missing or heavily damaged.
5. Color Correction and Enhancement
Restoring the original colors or enhancing faded ones involves:
Adjusting brightness and contrast: Bringing back the photo’s vibrancy and detail.
Restoring faded colors: Using historical knowledge and software tools to return colors to their original state.
Balancing tones: Ensuring skin tones and natural colors look realistic.
6. Final Touches
The last step ensures the photo looks as natural and complete as possible:
Sharpening details: Enhancing clarity in important areas of the photo.
Removing noise: Smoothing out any digital artifacts introduced during the restoration.
Adding artistic effects: When appropriate, adding effects to enhance the photo’s appearance.
7. Output and Preservation
Delivering the final product involves:
Choosing the output format: Providing the restored photo in a digital format or as a printed copy.
Offering preservation advice: Suggesting ways to store and protect the restored photo for longevity.
Justifying the Cost
The cost of photo restoration reflects the time, expertise, and tools required to achieve a high-quality result. The process involves:
Skilled labor: Professionals use their expertise to handle delicate, often irreplaceable photographs.
Advanced software tools: Requires investment in specialized software and equipment.
Time-intensive process: Each photo can take hours to restore, depending on the extent of the damage.
Understanding these strategies helps appreciate the delicate art of photo restoration and why investing in professional services is worthwhile for preserving cherished memories.
Can you fix my old family photograph?
You will have to show me what we’re working with. While we have had enormous success with most images, not all can be fixed for one reason or another. Without seeing it, I really can’t say. Consultations are free with no obligation. Let’s chat.
What are the most common types of damage you see in pictures?
Most everything you would expect. Rips, creases, scratches, fading, water stains, dust, lint and more.
How much does it cost?
The cost of an image restoration is dependant on the amount of work required to make it right. Most of the work we get is heavily damaged and requires a substantial amount of reconstruction. However, there are some that need very light adjustments and take very little time. The cost can exceed $75.00 + (depending on complexity of project). Don’t expect a quick turn-around, I take pride in my work and projects can take several weeks. Please don’t be mis-led by online services offering a 3 hour turnaround. In my world, that can’t be done correctly and efficiently returning the results that meet my standards.
That’s really expensive, How come?
This is not a one hour department store process. I use the most advanced software available and have trained hundreds and hundreds of hours to perfect my process. The equipment I run my software on is fast and designed to process large amounts of data through the restoration process. I have invested significantly in my craft and my prices reflect that investment. My clients understand this and are very pleased with the results and the return on their investment.
What if I’m not happy with the results?
I strive very hard to ensure a pleasing outcome on each project. If I can’t fix the issues presented, I don’t charge. Yes, even if I’ve already done several hours work. If I can’t deliver a final product to my satisfaction and high standards, I do not charge.
I have our old wedding photos I’m not happy with. No digital copies, just prints. Can you help?
Yes! Sometimes all these images need is a closer look at what you feel just isn’t right. We will then scan the photograph, and then get to work. Again, depending on the scope and complexity of the project, prices will vary. I continue to work on projects presented which are nothing more than a paper scan of a photo off a cheap printer. I love the challnege.
Do you offer printing?
Our printing is of professional quality. We have a number of different paper products we use depending on the project. Please see our page on printing for more detailed information.
I have questions not covered here!
Please drop us a detailed note and I will respond to you and offer clarity on any issues. You can reach me HERE