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How to colorize a black and white photo

Imagening adds natural color to old photos in about half a minute. You choose the photo and the style; the AI works out the colors. Here's each step, and what the options do.

  1. 1. Choose a photo

    Drag a photo onto the page, paste it, or browse for it. On a phone you can pick one from your photos or take one with the camera. JPG, PNG, WebP and HEIC (iPhone) photos all work.

    For a printed photo, a scan gives the best result. If you photograph it instead, hold the phone straight above it in even light and avoid glare.

    Not ready to use your own yet? Try one of the example photos. Examples are free.

  2. 2. Pick a color style

    Each style is a different take on color. They're shown on a real old photo, so you can see the difference before you start.

    Natural · 1 credit
    Neutral, realistic tones with soft contrast and minimal stylization.
    Natural Film · 1 credit
    Warm colors with nostalgic archival feel and muted saturation.
    Vivid Pop · 1 credit
    Strong saturation and contrast, brighter skin tones, and punchy greens.
    Golden Classic · 1 credit
    Warm golden highlights with gentle fade for a polished vintage portrait look.
    Advanced · 2 credits
    Enhanced detail colorization for difficult images. Better with fine details and tricky scenes.
    Nova · 1 credit
    A different model with its own take on color. Worth a try when other modes miss.
    Sunburst · 1 credit
    Rich, detailed color from a newer image model. Can take a little longer.

  3. 3. Add options if you need them

    Restore and repair · +1 credit
    Fixes damage, dust and worn detail before adding color. It can change faces, so compare the result with your original. More about restoring
    Upscale · +1 credit
    Doubles the resolution, which helps when you want to print. It can smooth very fine texture.
    Color hints · free
    If you know a color, say so: "Her coat is navy blue. The car is cream." Short, specific hints work best. Leave it empty and the AI chooses.

  4. 4. Colorize

    It usually takes 10 to 30 seconds. You'll see the cost before you start, and credits are only used if you get a result.

  5. 5. Compare, pick a look and download

    Drag across the photo to compare it with the original. Below it are several looks, each blending the new color with your original differently. Pick one, fine-tune brightness, contrast, saturation or tint if you like, then download it, or download every look as a zip. Choose Share to send someone a link.

  6. 6. Bring it to life, if you like

    Choose Video to turn the colorized photo into a 5-second clip with gentle, natural movement. It costs 10 credits and takes about 2 to 3 minutes. See examples

Good to know

More questions and answers

Try it on one of your photos

Your first 2 photos are free. No card or account needed.

Choose a photo