If you are looking to bring your classic black and white photographs back to life – Photo Colourization is the process of introducing colour to your black and white photos, and restoring them close to their original colours!
Photo Colourization has actually been going on since the very early days of photography. Although the hand-colouring of photographs was introduced in Europe, the technique gained considerable popularity in Japan – where the practice became a respected and refined art form beginning in the 1860s.
Even in today’s current time of technology; adding colour to black and white photos is still an art form. After many years of hand colourization – we have now perfected this process. Colourize your images with amazing results through our software: and mostly human intervention, experience, a lot of time – and skill!
The rebirth of introducing colour to your black & white photos produces amazing colour effects that bring life and vibrancy to your precious photos.
It’s a bit like painting on a screen – in much the same way as you would paint with a brush on canvas!
The Discovery of Colour Film in 1936…
Our past was always in colour, but pre 1930’s, our memories were only captured in Black + White…
The first patent for colour film was applied for in 1912. In 1932, the first 35mm film was developed for taking colour photographs. At that time, however, colour film could only be used with Leica and Contax cameras and the film had special colour stripe filters. It wasn’t until the end of the 1930’s that “colour photography for everyone” was finally made possible. However, the path that led up to this point was full of uncertainty and long developmental phases.
Here’s some of our work…



Photo Colourization:
Photo Colourization (Base fee) starts from –$120.00
The base fee covers simple Photo Colouring edits, more complex images can be from $120.00 – $350.00
– We will happily provide a quote upon inspection, fee free to call in anytime and have a chat with us!
1. Images are hand-scanned to create a high resolution digital file: Which is then worked on by one of our imaging specialists, with advanced image editing software.
2. Initial editing steps involve: Adjusting contrast, Correcting Casts & Levels; Sharpening, Straightening and Cropping your Image. If restoration is required on your image, this step is completed prior to the main task of Photo Colourization. (*See below for information on restoration)
4: Retouching / Photo Restoration (*Additional to the Photo Colouring Base Fee) – Quoted upon inspection.
* Advanced photo repair and restoration; Removing dust spots, correcting tears and surface damage, and repairing colours, stains and areas of severe damage. While technology provides the tools, the best photo repair and restoration is an artistic endeavor involving aesthetic judgment.
3. Photo Colourization: We then move on to the intricate job of hand colouring your image:
–We begin with advanced image editing software. Once we have our base, we then start the deep colour editing process.
–Every area of your photo is tweaked, and adjusted: Adding natural colour to the image and bringing it all together, as one complete and lovingly crafted Hand Colourized Photo!
This cost is additional to the set fee for Photo Colourization, check out our dedicated Photo Restoration Page via the link!
Call in and see us or please scan or take a photo & email us your photo for a quote.
*Please note: The original photo will be required to complete the restoration for the best possible results with quality scanning equipment we use here.
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Call us (09) 600 8001
14 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa, AK 0931
About us
Coast Photo has a long history, Est. September 1985, we started as a basic photo lab.
We are your imaging specialists. Offering an expansive range of products and services.
Located in the beautiful holiday destination of Ōrewa, which lies on the Hibiscus Coast; We have been providing the highest quality printing and customer service for many years. We are committed to providing personal attention and a wide range of products. We pride ourselves on our quality.
Call in to Coast Photo, and join the many who depend on us for outstanding quality, excellent value and exceptional customer service. We have the enthusiasm, knowledge, expertise and experience to guide you in-store, over the phone or via email.
Our equipment has constantly upgraded over the years, keeping us at the forefront of professional quality standards.
Come and see us for all your orders from printing to scanning, photo restoration, copying and anything photographic related.
Why choose us?
We provide quality work, exceptional service and value.
We’re here for you. Our friendly, knowledgeable and dedicated staff are experts.
We are available by phone, email and in-store of course! – We are a locally owned and operated business.
Our point of difference, We are an experienced team of Photo Imaging Specialists with a broad knowledge of all things photographic, with local and honest advice to guide you with all of your imaging needs. Est: 1985

