Photo Restoration FAQ

The digital age has provided us with so many advantages when it comes to the archives of our lives. Got three siblings who all cherished the same snapshot from their childhood? No problem! Scan it and share it across the country. Want to declutter and archive your history on the cloud? No sweat! What if time and exposure have made it so that you can't see those memories as clearly? A photo restoration may be the answer! Do you have questions about a photo restoration? Keep reading!

What is photo restoration?

Photo restoration is making an old photograph new again. Cracks, discoloration, tears, water damage can be repaired through digital processes.

How will you get my picture to restore?

You can have it scanned and sent to me digitally or I can take a photo of your photograph.

Can you make my photo bigger?

Sometimes. Scans will produce a photo that is the same size as the original. A photo of a photo can sometimes allow me to increase the size of your picture. The quality of the photo and the type of print used to create it may place limitations on an enlargement. Any issues will be discussed throughout the process of your restoration.

Will my photo look better than the original?

Probably not. The goal of photo restoration is to bring a photo back to as close to new as possible.

What can you not do with a photo restoration?

1) Fix a photo that is completely out of focus or badly blurred. There are tools that make sharpening focus seem magical--especially if you're looking at that company's ads. Slight issues can be improved with a few techniques. Unfortunately, when certain details in a photograph were missed, it can be impossible to create them out through a restoration.

2) Replace a person's head. Photos that have been ripped or damaged in such a way that all detail from a person's head is gone can not be brought back.

What will happen to my original photo?

If you have entrusted your original photo to me. It will be returned upon or prior to completion of your restoration project.

Do I get the digital version of my restored photo?

This will depend on the outcome you would like from this project. I have packages that include prints only or digitals + prints.

How long does a photo restoration take?

This will depend. Restorations with little damage can take as little as a few hours. The more damage to a photo, the longer it takes. During busy months or when a photo is highly damaged, photos can take longer to restore. Time estimates will be given when you inquire about a restoration project, and you will be updated throughout the process.

How much will my photo restoration cost?

Photo restorations start at $10 for photos that need light work. Prints of your restored photos begin at $15 for a 5x7. Digital files are $70 per file.