Return to Home PageMeet Elaine Martino  





 


Every restoration project begins with a client’s cherished and/or meaningful images, usually photographs. The source materials on which these images are provided vary from the very traditional - to the quite extraordinary - to formats that define digital imagery.

Since the first photographic process was formulated in the 1830s using light sensitive silver on polished copper, numerous advances have made it possible to capture and exhibit images on almost any type of material - paper, glass, metal, plastic, wood, cloth,…. These image sources can be irregular in texture as well as shape, and sometimes presented for restoration in pieces.

The digital format is the current, leading source for capturing and storing images. The quality of digital imagery can vary greatly depending on the capabilities of the media used to capture the image (10 megapixel camera vs cell phone) as well as options selected for storing the image (resolution, file type,...).

My services are a blend of artistic perspective and technological know-how involving sophisticated software. The challenges I encounter have as much to do with the type of material the image is sourced from, as with the actual deteriorating or damaged condition of the image itself.

To enter our gallery of sample images, click here...



• Environmental conditions … paper quality, handling, storage and framing materials are the primary influences that threaten the survival of one's significant images over time. Catastrophic events (floods, fire,…) though less likely can cause extreme damage, and unfortunately, sometimes permanent loss.

Poor environmental conditions influenced by temperature fluctuations, light exposure, and humidity can leave photographs and documents scattered with mould, faded, brittle, and discolored. Mishaps in handling result in scratches, tears, and stains. The acidity of poor quality storage albums and framing materials can migrate to high quality photographs and documents, causing them to gradually weaken and discolor. For the traditional photo print, poor quality photo finishing can make light sensitive photographic papers unstable eventually degrading the image (darkening, fading, color casts,...).

• Loss of color, colorcasts, fading, stains, scratches, tears, stuck to glass, disintegrating paper, even insect holes ... the challenges of restoration and re-creating an image vary greatly in complexity and scope. And, although to the client the situation might seem hopeless, I advocate never to give up on an image of importance to you. Digital tools and brushes in the hands of a talented professional make anything possible.

To enter our gallery of sample images, click here...



The centerpiece of my approach goes beyond my artistry with a digital paintbrush to focusing on the essential component – the client collaboration.

• This collaboration begins immediately with the discovery phase - the client is invited to provide their insights and expectations for a restored image. Often there are heartfelt “back stories” that bring images to life, contributing to a deeper understanding the image holds for the client, and what needs to be achieved for a successful restoration.

• During the analysis phase the image is assessed for the adverse effects of light, humidity, mould, acidity, improper handling... consequences of environmental, accidental, or possibly catastrophic conditions.

• Technical and artistic skill guide digital tools through the restoration process during which the client continues to collaborate. Feedback to repairs, color, toning,... is solicited through electronic and/or hard copy proofs. This phase is a critical component especially with extremely damaged images.

• With the client’s final approval, restored images are printed on fine, quality archival art papers ensuring a stable future for the work.

The project concludes with recommendations for storing and displaying the restored images.... along with conservation framing, and digital archiving alternatives.

 

 

© 2008 ANEW Photographic Art & Restorations • All rights reserved

Please note that all images on this website are the sole property of ANEW Photographic Art and Restorations,
and no reproduction of these images is allowed without the express written permission of Elaine Martino.

Web Site design by Valentine Design. Please contact WebMaster with problems or questions on site function.