How to Map Damage Before Restoring an Old Photo
By ImgHeal · Updated
Mark scratches, stains, missing areas, and uncertain features on a separate review copy before choosing which restoration tasks to attempt.
Explore this topic: Assess photo damage
Use a reference overlay
Create a duplicate or annotation layer and mark damage locations without drawing on the original scan. Use a simple key for scratches, tone problems, missing material, and uncertain features. Include the photograph identifier so the map remains connected if the review image is shared outside its working folder.
Rank areas by consequence
Distinguish distracting background defects from damage crossing eyes, mouths, text, and other identifying details. Note where source information survives and where reconstruction would be required. A long scratch through an empty wall may be easier to address faithfully than a tiny loss at the corner of a person's eye.
Use the map during review
Compare the finished version against each marked area and look for unintended changes nearby. Record defects intentionally left visible and why. Keep the map with the source, not as the public viewing image. It gives later editors a concrete account of the original problems and the scope of the accepted repair.
Check before finishing
- Annotations are separate from the source.
- Identity-sensitive areas have priority.
- Accepted and deferred repairs are recorded.
Continue with a related guide
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