Restoring a very old photo

[RLM]

Attached is a photo that is about 100 years old.

Is it possible to restore?

Is so what steps do I need to do, what skills?

Elements is a great program, but it requires a both photo program skills, and artistic skills.

I would appreciate any help or suggestions on how to restore.

Thanks

[baycruisers]

It can be done. You should be comfortable using layers, the healing brush and clone stamp. It will probably take some time, though!

Dave Kloskowski wrote a good book that covers this:

http://www.amazon.com/Photoshop-Elements-Restoration-Retouching-Book/dp/0321481658

Although written for PSE 5 it will also work with later versions. I have it and it's very helpful.

[Simenon]

I happen to own that particular book and you should find working your way through its editing exercises very helpful in approaching your restoration project. I have recommended that particular tutorial on more than one occasion as an excellent beginning text no matter which version of Elements you happen to be using.

BTW - the author is Matt Kloskowski; not Dave.

~ Simenon

[RLM]

Thanks,

I have ordered the book.

[frank abramonte]

RLM, here's a quick restoration of your photo. I adjusted the photo with Shadow/Highlights, along with a little hue/saturation. I then used the clone tool. In some spots I copied and pasted some areas, these were minor. I finished by putting a border around it.
You could put in a whole new background, but i like the antique feel of the present one.

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/1KLzmyziswrlc1E9ANlREf23FrYRJA_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1KLzmyziswrlc1E9ANlREf23FrYRJA)

[christellf]

I have the same book & it gives some very helpful info & easy to understand. I refer back to it all the time. Good luck with your photo.
Christell

[baycruisers]

I happen to own that particular book and you should find working your way through its editing exercises very helpful in approaching your restoration project. I have recommended that particular tutorial on more than one occasion as an excellent beginning text no matter which version of Elements you happen to be using.

BTW - the author is Matt Kloskowski; not Dave.

~ Simenon

Dave, Matt...at least I got the last name right!;)