Directory of Members

Eric C. M. Basir launched Photo Grafix in 1999, a photographic restoration and retouching studio based in Evanston, IL. Using a combination of photographic, illustration and computer skills acquired through formal education and professional experience, he has served hundreds of genealogists throughout the United States with high-quality digital restoration of their photographic collections.

In 2009, Mr. Basir completed the Photo Retouching and Restoration Foundations Course. It is comprised of concise step-by-step videos and an easy-to-read workbook to properly instruct students with no or very little Photoshop experience.

He also has an extensive portfolio of work with businesses. This includes advertising agencies, book and magazine publishers and professional photographers.

Since 2001, Eric has met with over a dozen genealogical societies throughout the Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, demonstrating his skills and sharing techniques for restoring and preserving their own photographs using home computers. He is the author of "Ask the Retoucher," a column syndicated to genealogical publications in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Eric has also authored a series of books and videos about the subject.

Eric currently serves as a Director of the Genealogical Speakers Guild.

Digital photo retouching and restoration.
Studio owner and instructor.

Photo Restoration Roadshow (audience participation)
• Photo editing software
• Photo preservation and evaluation theory
• How to best use inkjet printers for family archives
• Efficient scanning techniques for photos and documents
• Basic photo restoration demonstration
• Advanced photo restoration demonstration

Large screen or plain white wall.
Cart or stand for digital projector.
Lectern or stand at least chest-high for computer.
Microphone with stand or lapel attachment.
Video and audio taping is permitted.
Vending/Exhibit table in or near conference room for attendees desiring quotes for photo restoration.
A chalk or dry-erase board (not mandatory).
Overnight Accommodations - Non-smoking and pet-free home or hotel housing.
Reimbursement for at least 1 meal per day
Handout masters provided by speaker.
Computer and digital projector provided by speaker.

African-American History and Genealogy Study Group (2010)
Cook Memorial Public Library (2010)
Arlington Camera Club (2010)
Ohio Genealogical Society (2010)
Arlington Heights Public Library (2009)
Polish Genealogical Society (2009)
Tinley Moraine Genealogical Society (2009)
Illinois State Genealogical Society (2008)
Northwest Indiana Genealogical Society (2008)
Family History Center-Naperville IL (2008)
Ohio Genealogical Society OH April (2008)
Fox Valley Genealogical Society IL (2008)
Ukrainian Genealogical Society IL (2008)
Polish Women's Civic Club IL (2008)
Chicago Genealogical Society IL (2007)
Winnebago & Boone County Genealogical Society IL (2007)
Tinley Moraine Genealogical Society IL (2007)
Lee County Genealogical Society IL (2007)
Ohio Genealogical Society OH (2007)
Northwest Suburban Council of Genealogists IL (2007)
DuPage County Genealogical Society IL (2007)
Illinois State Genealogical Society IL (2006)