Photography & heritage Reading time: 2 min
Digital restoration of old photographs
Digital restoration works on a copy of the image to reduce certain defects and improve its clarity. The original remains a reference to preserve.
Assessing the image before retouching
Faded, creased, stained or torn: every photograph requires assessment. We examine the defects and remaining information. An image sent in advance starts the conversation, but examining the original may be necessary to price the work.
A high-quality digital copy
The first stage is suitable scanning or reproduction. Work then continues on the file. It may address dust, some scratches, tonal differences or local damage. This differs from physical conservation treatment of the original object.
Respecting the image
We define the aim with you: retain the patina, improve clarity or create a more extensively retouched version. A completely missing detail cannot be recovered with certainty. Significant reconstruction is an interpretation and must be discussed, especially for faces or historically important documents.
From file to a new print
The result can be delivered as a file and, if requested, printed on suitable paper. Size is chosen for the available information and desired appearance. We can also propose framing for the new print while you preserve the original safely.
What you can prepare
Gather the originals, any other copies and useful information about the image. Do not try to peel apart, wash or forcibly flatten a fragile photograph. Describe what you want corrected and what must be preserved.
Your questions
Will restoration recover every detail?
No. Some information is lost. Possible corrections and their limits are explained before work begins.
Can the old appearance be retained?
Yes. Preserving the patina can be part of the agreed aesthetic choice.