Restoration

All of our projects are quoted individually and costs will vary according to the time required and complexity of restoration. The following pages will give a reasonable idea of the work put into the three key price bands.

We restore your pictures using the latest computer techniques. This ensures that the original photograph can be returned to you unaltered and the full power of modern technology can be used to restore and enhance the image.

The first part of the process is to scan the photograph: this does not harm the original and allows a replica to be captured by the computer. During the scanning process there are decisions to be made about scan resolution and file format which will vary according to the quality of the original photograph and the size and purpose of the final image. The next step is to rebalance the image in black and white or colour. This will remove any fading which has occurred over the years and eradicate any variations in exposure in the original photo.
The most important stage is the removal, with the latest software applications, of any damage to the image such as scratches, torn corners or creases. This process calls for a blend of technical knowledge and artistic awareness garnered over several years of experience. A good restorer can remove significant amounts of damage in such a way that it is very difficult to detect on the final image.
After this comes image manipulation, if required. An old black-and-white photo can be artistically coloured to give it new vibrancy and interest. A modern image can be rendered into monochrome or sepia for a change of mood. An individual can be removed from a picture into a new background (or disposed of completely!). Many other adjustments are possible so please ring to discuss them with us.
The final stage in the process is enlargement (if desired) and printing. We employ multi-cartridge photographic printers for the highest quality results. These have 8 colour cartridges and a very fine print head. In addition we use the finest quality photographic paper. All of this means that the final image will be a significant improvement on the original. For an additional charge we can provide a ‘soft’ copy of the picture on CD-ROM which will allow the family treasure to be preserved for future generations. It can be resized and reprinted to share with others over and over again.