How to Chemically Restore Old Photos

Old photographs are treasures for sentimental and historic value. Unfortunately, photos suffer the effects of oxidation just like everything does, causing a photo to fade. Chemically restoring old photos is one process among several that can fix the problem, and it works best on black and white photos. Pros and cons exist to chemical restoration. You'll have more control, but you could also cause permanent damage. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stop tray
• Tweezers or tongs
• Print paper
• Developer tray
• Fixer tray
• Wash tray
• Drying cabinet

Restoration by Redeveloping

1. Purchase a kit to redevelop black and white photos from a commercial store that sells photo developing supplies. Mix the redeveloper according to the directions.

2. Redevelop the photograph in black and white developer. This should bring the silver metal back into the faded photo, which was changed through oxidation. See the eHow "How to Develop a Black-and-White Print" for more information.

3. Use the alternative method of bleaching and redeveloping below if this process does not work.

Restoration by Bleaching and Redeveloping

4. Bleach and redevelop the photo. This option to chemically restore old photos is risky because the bleach can permanently damage your photograph.

5. Make sure you are using the correct bleach formula if you choose this process. Recipes can be found online (see Resources) or you can purchase chemicals at a commercial store for the job.

6. Consider hiring a professional to chemically restore old photos if you are going to attempt the bleach and redevelop method. Better safe than sorry.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't touch the chemicals. Use tweezers or tongs.
• Don't use an original photo if you plan to bleach and redevelop because the process cannot be reversed.

Resources

• This site has a forum with bleaching recipes for restoration.