Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about photo restoration, colourisation, photo scanning and digital image repair. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, we’re always happy to help.
Questions We’re Often Asked
Every photograph is unique, and clients often have questions about what can be repaired, how photographs should be sent and what results are possible. Here are answers to some of the questions we are asked most frequently.
Photograph Restoration
A digital image is recorded of the original photograph, most usually by a scanner, and then the digital image is manipulated via software on the computer to repair damage or to enhance or change some aspect of the image.
Yes. Torn photographs can often be restored so effectively that the original damage becomes almost impossible to detect. Tears, creases, missing corners and damaged edges can usually be repaired digitally while preserving the original character of the image.
Yes. We can often recover contrast, colour and detail from faded photographs. Every image is different, so we are happy to assess your photograph and provide honest advice.
In many cases, yes. Water stains, mould damage and severe deterioration can often be improved significantly using professional digital restoration techniques.
I am often asked if I can improve blurry photos or sharpen out-of-focus photos and regretfully I used to have to answer no! Photoshop as a programme is powerful in so many ways and can sharpen to some extent but it can really only work with existing pixels. There are many ways to enhance a photo and making it appear sharper and clearer including bringing out detail in shadows (if it is there to start with), improving the contrast in an extremely faded photo, increasing the contrast somewhat of edges of elements. It has not been possible to sharpen a photo if the digital information or pixels are not in the image to begin with, until relatively recently.
Now with the help of amazing new technology I am so happy and excited to be able to tell my clients, tentatively yes! Please contact me to enquire.
Yes. Depending on the image, unwanted objects, distractions and even people can often be removed while maintaining a natural appearance.
Most projects are completed within one to two weeks, depending on complexity. If you have a deadline for a special occasion, please let us know.
Yes. We provide proofs for approval and welcome feedback. We want you to be delighted with the finished image and are happy to make reasonable adjustments before final delivery.
Pricing & Quotes
My pricing is very reasonable and is calculated according to the amount of time that the restoration or retouching will take. I am happy to give a no-obligation free quote on viewing your photo or image file. Bulk orders are taken into consideration and trade enquiries are welcome.
No. We are happy to provide a free, no-obligation quote after reviewing your photograph.
Most projects are completed within one to two weeks, depending on complexity. If you have a deadline for a special occasion, please let us know.
Sending Your Photos
You may scan your photos, copy to a memory stick and post to me, email or share with Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, WeTransfer or Dropbox. TIFF format is fine, JPG format with minimal compression is good too. A resolution of at least 600dpi is recommended for best results, more if you would like your photo to be greatly enlarged. Please wipe your scanner glass clean (with a dry lint-free cloth) of any dust first! If you need instructions please refer to my step-by-step article on how to scan photos here.
Please include your contact details and any instructions, protect with clean cardboard and plastic and posting Express Post with a tracking number may help for peace of mind. Lodging over the counter at a Post Office and obtaining a receipt is also advisable!
Not at all, the photograph is scanned to obtain the digital image and will always be returned to the client in safe condition.
Firstly, DON’T PANIC! and whatever you do don’t try to peel it off! It can be scanned right through the glass, and then may only require minor retouching. If you have already peeled off the photo and there is damage this can most probably be repaired, please contact me for advice.
No. Many clients simply photograph their image with a phone and email it to us for an initial assessment. Original photographs can also be posted if necessary.
Scanning
600dpi (dots per inch) is preferable, or if you would like your photo enlarged, please scan higher if possible, but always save the image as either TIFF or best quality (largest file) JPG.
I am very happy to scan your photos/documents for you.
Yes. Photographs are handled carefully and scanned using appropriate equipment to minimise the risk of damage.
Colourisation
Yes. Most black and white photographs can be colourised to create realistic, natural-looking colour images.
Where possible, colours are selected using research and reference material to achieve realistic results appropriate to the era.
Absolutely. Restoration and colourisation are often combined to achieve the best possible result.
Printing and Delivery
Yes. We can organise high-quality archival photographic prints and canvas prints.
Yes. Restored images can be supplied digitally and can also be printed if desired.
Yes. High-resolution scanning and modern enlargement techniques allow many photographs to be reproduced at larger sizes.
Still Have Questions?
Every photograph is different. If you have a question that isn’t answered above, we’d be delighted to help.
