How to Restore Old Photos for Print (Step-by-Step)

7/22/2024 · GenIt Team

Scanning settings, color correction, and AI clean‑up to get archival‑quality prints from old photos.

Want to turn a faded family snapshot into a frame‑ready print? Here are the practical steps that matter: scan correctly, fix global problems first, then apply targeted AI restoration.

1) Scan at the right DPI

For prints up to 8×10, scan at 600 DPI. For larger enlargements, 1200 DPI is safer. Always disable auto‑enhance features that add halos or crush blacks.

2) Global corrections before AI

Straighten and crop to the final composition.
Fix white balance; aim for neutral grays, not pure white.
Gently raise exposure; avoid clipping highlights.

3) AI cleanup

Use GenIt to remove scratches, repair tears, and enhance faces. Keep an eye on skin texture—use moderate settings for a natural look.

4) Prep for print

Export as PNG or high‑quality JPEG (90–95%).
Set the long edge to your print size at 300 PPI.
Use matte paper for vintage photos to reduce glare.