Scenario 4
Fading Colours in Photographic Collections

Historical photographic and film collections are often affected by colour degradation—a challenge this fourth scenario aims to address. Among the most vulnerable are two specific types: autochromes and Kodacolor film. They were produced using now-obsolete techniques, making their original colours particularly difficult to recover.

How can we digitally “turn back the clock” to reconstruct these colours? These photographs and films were used to capture personal, artistic and documentary subjects. This includes images of costumes, traditions and architecture, some of which no longer exist. How can we faithfully reconstruct and reproduce their original colours? How can we apply AI techniques in an ethical way?

Case Studies

Two different sets of objects were selected for this scenario:  

Autochromes

Involved partners: V&A, HSLU, Fraunhofer, NTNU

Kodacolors Film

Involved partners: NTNU, Fraunhofer, HSLU