[Gimp-user] Enhancing old document

[rich404 <forums gimpusers com>]

> I am trying to use GIMP (2.8.10) to make some indistinct annotations
> on a medieval manuscript more legible.  Typical of the published
> images of its pages is
> http://ica.themorgan.org/manuscript/page/35/159535
>
> Examples of the scrawled additions I am trying to enhance are those in
> brownish ink after the end of the main (blackletter) text, and across
> the foot of the page.
>
> So far I have tried Unsharp Mask (including varying the parameter
> settings); several of the colour adjustment tools (including the
> interesting but drastic Auto > Equalise); and Rob A's high-pass
> filter.  All of these are some help, but I'm still looking for
> something better - and as a relatively inexperienced Gimp user, I'm
> concerned that I don't have a good enough understanding of the problem
> to pick the right tools.
>
> Can anyone help, please?  I would be really grateful for any and all
> suggestions.
>
> Thanks, Alan
>
> PS Ideally we could do with higher-resolution images to begin with,
> but as I don't have access to the original manuscript I have to work
> with those available on the web.

I do not think there are any "right tools" for this. Experimenting as you have
done, is a good way to learn about Gimp.

If the same as I downloaded (about 400 x 600 pix) then really..a bit too small.

You could try:

1. Select the areas required. I used quick mask but freeselect in add mode works
as well. see screenshot 1

2. With the selection active (toggle quickmask off) use the gmic plugin
www.gmic.eu and the repair scanned documents filter. Output typical settings and
output mode shown screenshot 2

3. Gives this with when selection is turned off screenshot 3

4. Put the new layer into Multiply mode to merge, gives as screenshot 4 but back
to small image size and pixel sized graphics.

Using Gimp 2.8.10? Why, when the most recent stable is Gimp 2.8.22

rich: gimp-forum.net

Attachments:
* http://www.gimpusers.com/system/attachments/841/original/01doc.jpg
* http://www.gimpusers.com/system/attachments/842/original/02doc.jpg
* http://www.gimpusers.com/system/attachments/843/original/03doc.jpg
* http://www.gimpusers.com/system/attachments/844/original/04doc.jpg

-- 
rich404 (via www.gimpusers.com/forums)