Principles of Using AI

Before diving into specific tools, it helps to have a framework for using AI thoughtfully in your family history research. These seven principles guide how I approach AI, whether I’m transcribing a handwritten will or restoring a faded photograph, and they’re worth keeping in mind no matter which tool you’re using.

Image Restoration

Copy the template below and replace the highlighted text with details about your photograph, its approximate era and any obvious damage helps the AI the most.

Prompt Template

Restore this [photograph from an 1897 newspaper] to its original quality while maintaining complete faithfulness to the original context and historical authenticity.

Remove all physical damage including scratches, tears, creases, dust spots, stains, and missing sections. Repair fading and discolouration by restoring original colours and tones without over-saturation. Enhance clarity and sharpness by reconstructing blurry details into accurate physical details based on surrounding context. Apply natural lighting correction with proper shadows and highlights. Add authentic surface textures including natural skin pores, fabric properties, and material accuracy where damaged areas need reconstruction. Preserve all original composition, poses, expressions, and historical characteristics.

Output should appear as a clean, well-preserved version of the original photograph, with all damage repaired and quality improved while remaining completely true to the source image at maximum resolution.

Some AI Tools for Family History

Remember, choose the task, not the tool. New AI tools appear constantly, and it’s easy to get distracted chasing the latest one. Below is a snapshot of the tools I currently use across research, writing, transcription, image work, and presentation preparation.