Colorize Old Black-and-White Photos
Natural, period-accurate color, researched by hand
Seeing a grandparent's photo in color can make them feel close again. We colorize black-and-white photos by hand, using the era of the photograph and what you tell us about the people, clothing and setting, so the result looks natural rather than painted.
How we choose the colors
Automatic colorizers guess. We research. Before we colorize, we look at when and where the photo was probably taken, the fabrics and styles of the period, and anything you share in your story. Skin tones, hair, uniforms, wallpaper and cars all get the same attention.
If you know a detail, tell us: the blue of a wedding dress, the color of grandpa's eyes, the red car in the driveway. We use what you know first, and period-accurate research for the rest.
What colorization can and can't tell you
A black-and-white photo doesn't record color, so any colorized photo is a careful interpretation, not a record of the original colors. Ours is researched and reviewed by a person, and we never add details that weren't in the photograph. If something matters to you, put it in the story and we'll follow it.
Restoration comes first
Color only looks right on a clean image, so every photo is restored before it is colorized: we repair tears, scratches, fading and stains first. Read more about old photo restoration.
How to send your photo
- Phone photos of prints are fine. Lay the print flat, in bright, even light, with no glare, and shoot straight on so the photo fills the frame.
- If you have a scanner, use it. A higher scan resolution gives us more detail to work with, especially for small prints.
- Take the print out of a glass frame or plastic sleeve first if you can do it safely; reflections hide detail.
- Upload JPG, PNG, HEIC or TIFF files, up to 15 MB each. Your original print never has to leave your home.
What you receive
Your colorized photos are delivered as digital files you can save, share, print or pass down. If you choose Cherished Memories, Family Story or Legacy, the photos are also gently animated.
Price, delivery and refunds
| Package | What's included | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Memory Sample | 5 photos restored and colorized | $25 |
| Cherished Memories | 1 photo restored, colorized and animated | $49 |
| Family Story | 6 photos restored, colorized and animated | $199 |
| Legacy | 10 photos restored, colorized and animated | $499 |
The Memory Sample is the simplest way to colorize old photos: 5 photos restored and colorized for $25. Optional add-ons are priced per photo: Background Change (+$49), Clothing Adjustment (+$39), Remove Person or Object (+$49) and Add Family Member (+$99). A Memorial Composite ($129–$149) is quoted after consultation.
We deliver within one week of receiving your photos and payment. 1 revision is included if the result does not feel true, and if it still doesn't feel right, ask for a refund within one week of delivery and we'll refund you in full. You pay on this site with PayPal or Zelle. See our Terms of Service for the details.
Photo colorization FAQ
Can you match a color I remember?
Yes. Tell us in your story, for example the color of a dress, a uniform or someone's eyes, and we'll use it instead of our best period estimate.
Will it look like a filter?
No. Every photo is colorized by hand and reviewed by a person. We aim for natural, period-accurate tones, not bright or generic color.
Can you colorize a damaged photo?
Yes. Every photo is restored before it is colorized, so tears, scratches and fading are repaired first.
Can you colorize more than five photos?
Yes. Family Story includes 6 photos and Legacy includes 10, and both are also animated. For more, order another package or email us.
See your family in color
5 photos restored and colorized for $25. Tell us what you remember about the colors, and we reply within 24 hours.