Expert: Don Wood - 6/30/2006

Question
Hi!  I really hope you can help me, I've been searching and searching for an answer and have given up on the internet search engines!

The photographer from my Wedding (2001) used a red eye removal pen on the pictures and needless to say some of them he missed the red eye and I'm left with photos with blue marks and really weird eyes.  Is there anyway to remove these marks?  If not on the actual photo, with a computer program?  I don't have negatives just the proofs.  I am so heartbroken that this happened but am unable to get ahold of the photographer to get new ones.  I hoping there is a way to fix them.  Thank you so much for any help you may offer.
Elizabeth

Answer
Elizabeth, You say that the proofs from 2001 have marks on them. That is a long time to wait to finish your wedding pix order. 6 years. Did you not order finished prints in an album? That being said, Paint Shop Pro X can help you in your copying of the pix and reworking to eliminate the offensive marks.
But I really would try to get hold of the photographer, perhaps he would be willing to sell the negs to you. Perhaps he no longer is in business. Perhaps he has decided not to do weddings, focusing on another facet of the business. Perhaps he has misfiled the negs and is too embarassed to admit it.
I really would want you to finish the business you initiated with the photographer. As a pro he thrives on repeat business, first the wedding, then the new families with the newest additions, etc.
A good scanner and the software will do wonders with your copying of the pictures. Plus you will have the pleasure of reviewing each picture with the memories they evoke.
I do wish you good luck in your endeavors.
Thanks for asking.