One cannot wish away aging in life or in pictures. At least where pictures are concerned, the life can be restored. And that is exactly what image retouching does. But a regular editor who is used to this kind of work best does this. When one looks at the old pictures, they seem to narrate an old tale. So why not make it a modern tale with a new twist? It is of course a personal decision if one wants to turn a B & w picture into color. But now even that is possible. Damaged photos also can be made better with image retouching technique.

The old photos that can be retouched into life can be first segregated from the ones that cannot be retouched at all. All these pictures are first converted into digital format. The size of the pictures can be of any size. One-way to ensure that the pictures do not get worse, one can also take photos of them in the digital camera. Once they are shot on this format, then editing them becomes easier. Saving the photos now in the digital format is advisable. Always allow a professional editor to retouch them. Yes, there is free software available, but a pro knows what to do best. He has the skills to combine it with other techniques to revive it. This is the best way to preserve the family photos.

Image retouching and restoration go hand in hand. Expressions on the faces also can be changed. But while doing these techniques for old pictures it is best to stick to the original look. It makes the retouch more authentic and not overtly handled. Changing the color is really a personal option. If the client insists then only it should be done. This is because everyone knows that old photos have essentially been shot in B & W. While retouching, it is important to remove the stains, scars, earmarks, folds and if need be do some image stitching. The last in fact is a very delicate job handled only by experts.

Often the marks of the scotch tape appear on the picture. When such pictures arrive for retouching, it can be quite a challenge. The black and white pictures made have high or low tonal contrast. These can also be retouched effectively. The yellowness of the paper also needs to be removed. The process is time consuming. Just adding some sharpness to it can revive a photo. The missing areas also can be filled. If there are any ink marks, they can be erased too.

Commercial retouching is recommended for restoration of old family photos of importance. It can be an expensive affair also. It is best done with a little care and with time on hand. The art of bringing back the ancient magic is complex. Quick editing cannot damage it further. The old have a pace of their own and they need to be handled gently.

Author's Bio: 

Atiqur Sumon
Chief Executive, DTP & SEO Expert at Outsource Experts Ltd.
Image Retouching | Image Retouching Technique | Image Stitching