Photo edit prompt

Colourize a black-and-white photo: Gemini & ChatGPT prompt

This prompt asks the AI to colourize (colorize) a black-and-white photo with believable skin tones and period-appropriate colours for the clothing, hair and surroundings. You tell it the decade and place so the colours fit.

Before and after example: Colourize a black & white photo
BEFORE vs AFTER: 1950s B&W ⟶ Authentic Period Colours · AI-generated example

The prompt

Colourize this black-and-white photo with realistic, natural colours. Use believable skin tones for each person, and period-appropriate colours for clothing, hair, and surroundings for the [DECADE, e.g. 1960s] in [PLACE, e.g. Kerala, India].

Pro tip: Tell it any colours you remember: “her saree was maroon with a gold border”.

How to use this prompt

  1. Open Gemini and start a new chat.
  2. Upload your photo (a clear, front-facing one works best).
  3. Paste the prompt and replace any [BRACKETED] fields with your own details.
  4. Send it. If something is off, regenerate or change one detail at a time.

Prompt at a glance

Category
Photo edit
Works with
Gemini · ChatGPT
Length
33 words
Fields to fill in
DECADE, PLACE
Last updated

Frequently asked questions

Which AI tools work with this prompt?

It is written for Gemini and ChatGPT. Both can edit a photo you upload.

What do I need to fill in?

Replace these fields before you send it: DECADE, PLACE. Each field shows an example in the prompt.

Will the AI change my face?

The prompt tells the AI to keep faces and identities the same, but results vary between runs. If a face drifts, regenerate or reply "keep the face identical to the original".

Is my photo uploaded to PromptUp?

No. PromptUp only gives you the text of the prompt. You upload your photo directly to the AI tool you choose, under that tool's own privacy terms.

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