Save the original photo as a separate layer. Make a new layer to begin the restoration. Bad things  can happen during the restoration.

Since this photo is meant to be a period piece Sepia Tone is added. This will give the photo a dated look.

An adjustment to the levels (greyscale/tone) is applied to the photo. Not too much at this point.

More texture and color will be added later stage.

Adjustment to the levels (black, white and grey) are applied more aggresively at this point. Look to balance the general lights or darks using curves, levels, shadows & highlights.

Add a new layer or better yet start to use layer adjustments to modify you existing layers.

The reason for multiple layers is to do no harm to underlying layers.

Having a version you can go back to is essential.

Color and Texture are introduced in this layer to start to give a richer and more complex visual environment.

Wallpaper pattern was created using Adobe Illustrator CS6. The repeating pattern for the background wall was saved as a psd and placed into the background.

Coloration of the dress, mantel, table and vase were accomplished using a color adjustment layer.

This technique allows you to apply a watercolor overlay thus retaining the shadows and highlight of the image below.

This would be the end to a traditional photo restoration.

...beyond the pale

Using Painter 11, Wacom tablet and stylus, additional splashes of color and texture are applied throughout the image to give a more contemporary look to the photo.

These painting techniques can be achived using Photoshop alone but Painter 11 has much more variety in brushes and media.

Your imagination takes over  and the joy of creativity takes over.

...finishing touches

Final details, using the pen & pencil tool with Painter 11, gives the process the type of control required in an actual painting or drawing.

These are a few short steps that can quickly turn an old dingy photo from the desk drawer into a intense work of art full of life and energy.