Pictures capture our most precious special moments in time. Every family has a basement or attic with photo albums and boxes filled with precious heirlooms. Throughout our lives we will go back to these photo over and over again to take a walk down memory lane, to relive memories, recount the past, and learn about our history.

Unfortunately, over time photos begin to suffer damage. Photographic paper degrades, colours fade, and photos get damaged from heat, humidity and improper care.

The best way to preserve valuable photos from being lost forever and save them for future generations is to digitally restore and save the images. It’s also a safe method for archiving and duplication.

The process starts by scanning the original slide, negative or print at high resolution, leaving the original unharmed. All restoration work is done on the electronic copy, preserving as much detail as possible. Through restoration, the image can be brought back to its original glory – sometimes with better enhancements than the original.

Restoration can include:

  • Repairing damage including cracks, creases, tears and holes
  • Removing stains, watermarks, mildew, and blemishes
  • Reversing the effects of fading, wash-out and discolouration
  • Bringing back the life and luster to colour and black & white photographs
  • Adding or removing people or objects

Last year it was my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary. I spend months restoring over 700 photographs submitted from friends and family from across the country. In return, each family received a DVD with all the restored and catalogued images as a special gift and keepsake.

Below are just two of the many photos I restored. These photos are just two examples of what can be achieved through electronic restoration. When I showed my grandparents the restored photos it brought back a lot of memories and emotion for them – and that is a very special gift that can never be bought.

Maybe it’s time to start thinking about what family photos you want to preserve for future generations or are worthy of prominent display in your home.

Still not convinced? Think about this: if your house was on fire and you had just one moment to grab anything inside, what would you take? Most people choose to take their most precious memories – their photos – because they are irreplaceable.