First post, Half faded photo

[henry8]

Hi All
I.m new but have been looking around for answers to this photo.
I.ve been retouching/repairing a few pics for friends etc, for a few years using mostly GIMP. I recently got hold CTEIN's book 'start to finish' a but after much searching, and I.m sure an answers their, frustration has kicked in and it's time for some expert advice/opinion.
Where do I start with this one?

Thanks for looking Cheers

[Tony W]

Hi Henry8 and welcome to RetouchPro. It has been a long time since I used Gimp but I think tools and technique will be similar to Photoshop. One way to start to tackle this (i.e. the uneven density) would be:

• Mask lower portion and apply curves to even up top and bottom- I used the rectangular marquee tool to make my selection
• A seperate curves layer with a mask to further adjust the girls at bottom of the picture
• Remove the line left across the centre from the mask by either cloning or patch tool
• A little Dodge and Burn on a new layer.

At this point you should have an image that you can tidy up as required. I do wonder however if it is possible to get a better scan showing a little more detail in the shadow areas assuming that some exists

[henry8]

Hi Tony W

Thanks for the welcome and your advice

I will follow the steps you outline and have a go at fixing this.
I have had it on my todo list about 4 yrs, so i will
have a crack and post results

Thanks Again

[Boneappetit]

Hi Henry8: Welcome aboard...

I've never done restoration of old photos before, I just wanted to give it a try. The original retouch before the resolution downsize looks a little bit better, I cannot upload it because of the 100kb limit of the forum... So here is my try:

[Cupcake]

I did 2 layers, top one very dark. Kept the dark on the bottom, then healed the lines. Added a new texture to the picture.

[FortyOneSixty]

I know this is kind of an old post, but in case the OP is still watching I gave it a try.