Historically accurate hand-colourisation

When I colourise an old black‑and‑white or sepia photograph, the intention is never to change its meaning or diminish its historical value. Each image holds a unique story, and colourisation simply reveals that story in a new way.

As a result, I apply carefully researched, historically informed colours to ensure the final image remains faithful to the original moment.accurate colour, we can breathe new life into an old photograph and help you connect more deeply with the people and moments captured within it.

black and white photo of a cocker spaniel sitting for a portrait – original image ready for professional colourisation
Cocker Spaniel original b&w
enhanced and colourised portrait of a cocker spaniel with natural fur tones and restored detail – professionally colourised by Perth photo restoration specialist
Cocker Spaniel colourised

Sepia photographs — those warm brown‑toned images we often associate with age — can fade or lose contrast over time. 

However, at John’s Photo Restoration, we can enhance and preserve the beauty of the original sepia tones. 

Additionally, if you prefer, we can transform the image into full, vibrant colour. Whether you choose to keep the classic sepia look or bring the photo into colour for the first time, the aim is always the same: to honour the past while creating a version you can enjoy and share for generations.

Colourise – vibrant colour breathes new life into old photos

black and white circa 1910 photo of a lady seated with a small dog on her lap – original image ready for professional colourisation
Lady & Dog original b&w
colourised and enhanced circa 1910 photo of a lady seated with a small dog on her lap with natural tones – professionally colourised by Perth photo restoration specialist
Lady & Dog Colourised
Black and white 1960s head‑and‑shoulders photo of a man against a plain background.
Man H&S original b&w
Naturally colourised restoration of a 1960s head‑and‑shoulders portrait of a man.
Man H&S colourised

Colourise Your Photos with Historical Accuracy

Furthermore, every colourisation project begins with a close study of the photo’s tonal range, surface condition, and original photographic process. These details reveal how the moment was captured and guide the colours that will feel most authentic. By analysing the density of the black‑and‑white or sepia values, I can rebuild natural skin tones, fabric textures, and environmental colours with confidence. Each layer is added with care, allowing the image to regain the warmth and presence it once held. This thoughtful, methodical approach protects the integrity of your original photograph while bringing its story forward in a way that feels both accurate and emotionally true.

torn and faded sepia 1942 photo of a lady – original image ready for professional colourisation
Lady damaged original
fully restored and colourised 1942 photo of a lady with natural tones and repaired detail – professionally colourised by Perth photo restoration specialist
Lady repaired and colourised
original 1901 black and white wedding photo – faded, damaged image for professional photo restoration in Perth
Wedding couple (1901) original
restored and colourised 1901 wedding photo – professionally repaired and enhanced by Perth photo restoration specialist
Wedding couple (1901) restored and colourised

ADDING COLOUR RISK FREE 

Pay nothing before you see a proof

I’ll tell you exactly what’s possible before you commit to anything.

YOUR QUOTED PRICE WILL INCLUDE
  • Converting B&W or Sepia photos to full colour
  • We can work from a black and white or sepia negatives or prints
  • Consultation on colours (hair colour, dress colours etc)
  • If required, selectively colour only one area of the photo, leaving the remainder b&w 
  • Enhance Fading
  • 100% satisfaction guaranteed
black and white portrait of a cocker spaniel – original image ready for professional colourisation
Spaniel b&w original
colourised and enhanced portrait of a cocker spaniel with natural fur tones and restored detail – professionally colourised by Perth photo restoration specialist
Spaniel colourised
original black and white World War II photo of British soldier – well‑preserved image prepared for professional colourisation in Perth
Man in army uniform b&w original
colourised head‑and‑shoulders portrait of a World War II British soldier in uniform with natural tones and restored detail – professionally colourised by Perth photo restoration specialist
Man in army uniform colourised

Have a photo you'd like to colourise?

Upload it for a free assessment — I’ll show you what’s possible before you commit.

How it all works to colourise your photo

Step‑by‑Step: From Upload to Delivery

To Colourise a treasured photo should be easy…… and it is! I aim to make the process easy and reassuring.

Ultimately, my goal is to preserve your memories with care.

Whether you’re local, interstate or overseas, I have a simple, friendly process to guide you from upload to final delivery.

Start by digitising the image to colourise

If it’s a photo, slide, or negative, you’ll need to scan it first.
Not sure how? Click here for help and I’ll walk you through it.
Alternatively, send me the original and I’ll do that for you for a small charge.

Then, upload your image to colourise

Just click here to send it through.

I’ll assess and quote

I’ll take a look and let you know what’s possible and send you a confirmed price. No guesswork, no hidden fees, just a clear, honest assessment and quote in your local currency.

Ready to Go?

When you’re happy with the price, I’ll begin the restoration. You’ll receive a rough proof by email, along with a 14-day invoice,

You’re in control

Take your time to review the proof. If you’d like any changes, please let me know. I’m here to ensure you’re thrilled with the result. If you have ordered prints, I will proceed with printing.

Payment is easy

If you’re in Australia, you can pay by EFT or cash (if you’re dropping by).

Outside Australia or if you prefer to pay by card, you can pay securely in over 100 currencies using Stripe. Just ask for a Stripe invoice with a simple payment link.
(Note: Stripe payments attract a 3% surcharge.)

Final Delivery

Once payment’s sorted, I’ll email your beautifully restored, high-resolution image.

If you have any questions, we’d love to hear from you. 

Simply click the button below to send us a message or tell us your story

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