Preserving Photography Collections

Caring for a photography collection involves several key practices to ensure long-term preservation. Here are detailed steps to help you care for your photographs:

1. Handling

   1. Clean Hands: Always wash and dry your hands before handling photographs. Consider wearing white cotton gloves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring.

   2. Support: Handle photographs by their edges to avoid bending or creasing. Use two hands or support the photograph with a stiff piece of paper or cardboard.

2. Storage Environment

   1. Temperature and Humidity: Store photographs in a cool, dry environment. Aim for a temperature between 65-70°F (18-21°C) and a relative humidity of 30-50%. Avoid extreme fluctuations.

   2. Light Exposure: Keep photographs out of direct sunlight and limit exposure to artificial light. Use UV-filtering glass or acrylic in frames and store photographs in dark conditions when not on display.

   3. Air Quality: Ensure good air circulation and avoid storage in basements, attics, or other areas prone to dampness or pollutants. Use air purifiers to reduce airborne contaminants.

3. Storage Materials

   1. Acid-Free Materials: Use acid-free, lignin-free paper and board for storage. Avoid materials that contain PVC or other harmful plastics.

   2. Enclosures: Store photographs in individual acid-free envelopes, sleeves, or folders. Mylar (polyester), polypropylene, or polyethylene sleeves are popular options. These help to eliminate any direct contact with the photographs in addition to providing some rigidity.

   3. Albums and Boxes: Use archival-quality albums and boxes. Ensure they are made from acid-free, lignin-free materials and provide proper support and protection.

4. Organization

   1. Labeling: Label photographs using a soft pencil on the back edge or use archival-quality labels. Avoid using pens or markers that can bleed or damage the photograph. Pigma pens work great.

   2. Cataloging: Create a catalog or database to keep track of your collection. Include details like dates, subjects, locations, and any other relevant information.

5. Display

   1. Framing: Use archival-quality materials for matting and framing. Ensure the photograph does not touch the glass directly by using a mat or spacers.

   2. Rotation: Rotate photographs on display to minimize light exposure over time. Store them properly when not on display.

6. Digital Preservation

   1. Scanning: Digitally scan your photographs at a high resolution for backup and ease of access. Store digital copies on multiple devices and in different locations (e.g., cloud storage, external hard drives).

   2. Metadata: Include metadata with digital copies to record information about the photograph.

7. Regular Inspections

   1. Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your collection for signs of damage, such as discoloration, mold, or physical wear. Address any issues promptly.

   2. Maintain Environment: Ensure that the storage environment remains stable and that storage materials remain in good condition.

8. Professional Conservation

   1. Consult Experts: For valuable or severely damaged photographs, consult a professional conservator for advice and treatment.

In short - wear gloves, monitor the environment / exposure to UV light and use the proper storage materials.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the longevity and preservation of your photography collection, keeping your cherished memories and valuable images safe for future generations.