Charles Esther
There’s a new AI image fad spreading across the internet, one that could breathe new life into those dusty shoeboxes and family albums.
ChatGPT users have discovered that the AI assistant can take old photos and mimic a restored, colorized version.
It all started when a Reddit thread discussed the potential for ChatGPT to work as a photo restorer.
At first, users were skeptical of ChatGPT’s abilities, and for good reason.
Early experiments showed the AI was more likely to generate a “cousin” of the original subject rather than an accurate restoration.
How It Works: Tips and Tricks
Thanks to helpful tips shared by Redditors and Instagram users, a better approach has been crafted.
The most effective prompt found was: “Please upscale and colorize this photo while keeping it faithful to the time period.
Do not change the arrangement, expressions, background, or attire; only add period-accurate color and details. The new photo should overlay the original exactly.”
This method does not technically restore the image but reimagines it, like an artistic forgery with a modern twist.
The results are images with added color, enhanced resolution, repaired damage, and even reimagined missing details.
While it’s not true enhancement, it is fun and brings a fresh, less controversial form of AI-generated art compared to styles like Studio Ghibli recreations.
Putting It to the Test
To experience the trend firsthand, public domain photos from the Library of Congress were used.
This resource, rich in historical imagery, provided a perfect test bed.
Below are some fascinating results.
Rough Rider Restoration
First up was a portrait of President Theodore Roosevelt.
The image shows Roosevelt mid-writing session, seated at a desk adorned with a plaque and a liquor decanter.
ChatGPT’s restoration added fine details and vibrant period-accurate colors.
However, there were notable changes, such as hand positions, a reshaped chair arm, and a decanter swapped for what resembled a large candle.
Despite these quirks, the AI managed to capture Roosevelt’s essence remarkably well.
Bike to the Future
Next came a photo of a bicycle delivery boy.
The original captured a lively street scene, complete with puddles and dirt.
The AI’s colorized version oddly interpreted the street as a hardwood floor.
Still, the background signs, the crowd, and even the bicycle’s reflection popped vividly in the reimagined version.
Soda Jerk Revival
Moving ahead in time, the soda jerk photo came next.
A cheerful young man hands over what could be an egg cream or root beer float, beaming with theatrical flair.
ChatGPT’s version retained the joyous expression and even the bow tie’s charm.
Though the hairstyle seemed slightly off and the drink less appetizing, the image captured the spirit perfectly.
Iterate, Iterate, Iterate
Then came a duo of policemen clad in long coats and tall hats, complete with serious mustaches.
The colorized version dressed them in deep navy uniforms with brass buttons gleaming in the light.
While they appeared a bit taller and sharper than their black-and-white counterparts, the photo stayed true to its historic roots.
Mr. Mustache: A Star Is Born
Finally, the spotlight turned to a gentleman whose mustache could only be described as architectural.
The restored version slightly tidied the stray hairs but kept the original grandeur intact.
Everything from his face and hairstyle to the coat and shirt creases remained strikingly faithful.
This restoration arguably delivered the most impressive and authentic result.
Final Thoughts
While this AI trend doesn’t technically “restore” old photos, it offers an exciting and playful way to reimagine history.
For anyone with a stash of family photos or an interest in historical imagery, this AI fad presents a fascinating, less controversial outlet for creativity.
As long as expectations are managed, these AI-enhanced recreations can be a charming addition to digital memory preservation.
