Things You'll Need:
- Magnifying glass (optional) Photo restoration service (optional)
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Step 1
Look at the clothing worn by the subjects in the photograph. If the photos are slightly more recent, look for things like brands and styles. Research clothing and fashions of different time periods using the Internet or a library, and try to find a match for the subjects in your photo (see Resources).
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Step 2
Look at the hairstyles and makeup styles of your subjects. Again, research to find a match (see Resources).
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Step 3
Search for other objects in the photograph, such as cars, products or toys, that will help to identify the time period. For example, if there is an Atari video game console in the photograph, you'll know that it was taken sometime in the 1970s or 1980s, when the game was very popular.
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Step 4
Observe the physical surroundings of the photograph. Does it take place at a specific event? Are there any objects in the area that give specifics of location, such as signs or street markings? These will be clues that may lead to finding the photograph's time period.
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Step 5
Use a magnifying glass to observe smaller details in the photograph. You may come across something small in the photo that gives a clue as to the date.
