How to Fix Scratched and Damaged Photos with AI

📅 Published on August 3, 2025 · 🕒 7 min read

A few years back, I was asked to restore a photograph of a soldier taken during World War II. It had been folded, stored in a damp trunk, and survived a house move — but the result was a maze of deep creases, scratches, and faded details. Traditionally, repairing this would have taken me hours in Photoshop. Today, with the right AI photo restoration tool, I can achieve a near-identical result in under two minutes. The difference is staggering — not just in speed, but in the emotional impact when those details return.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how I use modern AI to fix damaged photos with AI, from scratches and cracks to discoloration, while maintaining the authenticity of the original image.

Understanding the Types of Photo Damage

Not all damage is created equal, and knowing the difference helps in choosing the right AI workflow:

• Surface scratches: Common on prints stored without covers.
• Creases and folds: Usually from mishandling or folding photos for storage.
• Color fading: Caused by UV exposure or chemical aging.
• Water damage: Leaves cloudy patches and often distorts ink.

How AI Removes Scratches and Cracks

When I first tested AI restoration on a heavily scratched image, I was skeptical. But these algorithms are trained on vast image datasets, enabling them to recognize damage patterns versus actual photo detail. Here’s what happens under the hood:

1. The AI scans for pixel patterns that differ from natural texture or lighting.
2. It predicts what should exist beneath the damage based on surrounding data.
3. It fills in those areas using generative image synthesis — in milliseconds.

My Go-To AI Tools for Repairing Damaged Photos

1. ImgEdit AI

The fastest for deep scratch removal. I’ve restored 1940s portraits with large creases using a single click and minimal loss of detail.

2. Remini Web

Excellent for facial detail recovery. Works best when paired with another tool that handles structural repairs.

3. VanceAI Photo Restorer

Great for mild to moderate scratches. I often use it for group photos where multiple faces need cleanup.

Pro Workflow Tips for Best Results

• Scan at 600 DPI for high-precision AI input.
• Run the photo through a scratch-removal AI first, then through an enhancement tool.
• Always keep the original file — some clients prefer the “aged” look preserved.
• Test multiple AI platforms for the same image — results can vary widely.

Final Thoughts

Fixing damaged photos used to require days of work and advanced editing skills. Now, with AI, anyone can revive a treasured image in minutes. The speed doesn’t just save time — it makes restoration accessible to people who might never have been able to afford it before.

If you have a scratched or torn image tucked away somewhere, try running it through an AI restoration tool. The moment those lost details come back is pure magic.