Photo Lab Technician how-to

How to Restore a Damaged Old Photo

Restoration saves memories.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Restoration saves memories. In short: scan; repair; remove, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Scan at high resolution.

  2. Repair cracks.

  3. Remove stains.

  4. Restore tone.

  5. Recreate missing areas carefully.

  6. Print on archival paper.

Safety reminders for photo lab technicians

  • Wear gloves with chemicals
  • Ventilate
  • Dispose of chemicals properly
  • Use ergonomic setups

C-41 · E-6 · Negative · Color correction · ICC profile · DPI: see the full photo lab technician glossary.

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