Using AI Responsibly to Recover and Restore Old Photos

Name: Using AI Responsibly to Recover and Restore Old Photos
Start: 2026-03-07T13:30:00-06:00
Location: Rockford Public Library

Schedule

Sat, 07 Mar, 2026 at 01:30 pm

UTC-06:00

Location

Rockford Public Library | Rockford, IL

This is both in person and on zoom for free.
Zoom link is https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Ehd_exX5SNOs2ZjzTkPRvg
With rapid developments in artificial intelligence, it’s more important than ever to talk about responsible use of AI in genealogy, especially when restoring or recovering historic photographs. New tools appear constantly, and while many are heavily promoted by genealogy and heritage platforms, much of that attention is driven by marketing rather than accuracy.
Over the past year, ongoing discussion within the genealogy community and emerging ethics committees have highlighted the need for transparency, faithfulness, and care when using AI with historical images. Some platforms, notably Gemini, are gaining recognition for producing restorations that many genealogists consider more accurate and respectful of the original photograph. Interestingly, much of Gemini’s capability is currently available at no cost for limited daily use, raising important questions about standards, expectations, and where the performance bar should be set going forward.
This seminar explores how to use AI thoughtfully and ethically, ensuring that restored images support honest genealogical research rather than unintentionally rewriting history.
Bob Bertolasi graduated from East High School, Bob served in the U.S. Air Force until 1962, later earning a degree in General Science from Rockford College with majors in Physics, Mathematics, and Psychology. His career has spanned roles at Ingersoll Milling, Kelsey Hayes Gunite Foundry and Twin Disc, and has worked in 31 countries and logged over 1.8 million air miles. Now retired, Bob joined Rock Valley College’s Center for Learning in Retirement in 2012 and is currently an instructor, committee member and media specialist. In addition, he enjoys a lifelong interest in photography and showcasing his customized 1950 Ford at car shows.