Let’s delve into this intricate art of photograph preservation.
Location Is Key
The first and foremost aspect to consider is the location. An often overlooked factor, the storage place for your photographs plays a big role in how long they will last. When choosing a location, you need to keep in mind that photos are susceptible to environmental factors.
Photos are delicate; they prefer cool and dry conditions. Ideally, they should be kept in a place with a temperature of 18-21 degrees Celsius (around 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit). Why this range? Because the warmer the environment, the faster the photographs deteriorate. So avoid storing your photographs in hot places like attics during the summer. If the temperature climbs above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, it could speed up the aging process of your photographs.
Humidity is another critical aspect. A relative humidity of 30-40% is considered optimal. High humidity can lead to mold growth and cause your photos to stick together, if this happens there’s a high chance that you can damage you pictures when trying to separate the photos. On the other hand, low humidity can make them brittle. In places where maintaining a steady humidity level is a challenge, a dehumidifier might be a practical investment.
But avoid locations like basements and garages, which can experience swings in temperature and humidity, leading to adverse conditions like dampness. Also, light, especially UV light, can be damaging to photos, causing them to fade. So the place you choose should be away from direct sunlight or bright artificial light.
Caring for Your Photos’ Environment
The environment in which your photos are stored can greatly affect their lifespan. It’s not just about temperature and humidity. Other factors, like air quality, cleanliness, and even the presence of pests, can have an impact.
For example, smoke, whether from cigarettes or fireplaces, can lead to seriously discoloured photographs. Certain cleaning chemicals can also have a detrimental effect on photos. It’s essential to keep your photo storage area clean and free from such damaging substances.
Furthermore, pests, including insects and rodents, can wreak havoc on your photo collection, If you’re storing the photographs in your home its unlikely you would have any issues with this. But if you have brave pests you can help avoid this by regularly cleaning the storage area and keeping it clutter-free. Using pest repellents or scheduling regular pest control services can also be beneficial.
The Right Containers and Albums
Choosing the right container or album is as critical as finding the ideal location for your photos. Not all containers are created equal, and some can do more harm than good.
You should avoid albums with self-adhesive or “magnetic” pages. The adhesive in these albums can yellow and damage your photos over time. Instead, opt for photo-safe albums with acid-free, lignin-free pages. These materials are chemically stable and won’t harm your photos.
Similarly, when using photo sleeves or pages, ensure they are made from safe plastics. Uncoated pure polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyester are considered safe for photographs. Avoid PVC or other plastic types that can release harmful chemicals.
For loose photos, acid-free, lignin-free archival boxes can be a lifesaver. These boxes will protect your photos from environmental damage. They are available in different sizes, allowing you to store different-sized photos separately. Just remember not to overstuff the boxes, as this can lead to bent or damaged photos.
Organizing and Labelling Your Collection
If you have a large photo collection, keeping an inventory or catalog can save you much time in the future. You can jot down what’s in each box or album, or, for a more digital approach, use a spreadsheet or photo organizing software. This way, you can quickly locate a specific photograph without having to rummage through multiple boxes or albums.
While it may seem tempting to write directly on the back of the photographs, be careful. Regular ink can bleed through and damage the photo. A pencil or an archival pen is a safer option. And instead of writing in the middle of the photo, make your mark along the edges.
Digital Backup
As an additional safety measure, consider digitizing your photos, and by consider, I mean definitely keep multiple back ups. By scanning your photos and storing them digitally, you create a backup that isn’t affected by environmental conditions. There are several scanning devices and/or services available that can help you digitize your photo collection. After scanning, store your digital photos on an external hard drives, cloud storage, or both. Remember to create multiple backups and update them regularly. And keep your backups in different locations. If one get damaged by an accident such as a water leak or big magnet, at least your other hard drive will be safe.
In conclusion, photographs are valuable pieces of our personal histories. They hold memories, moments, and milestones, capturing fragments of our lives that we want to remember and share. They are, in my opinion, one of the most important things you can own. But like all valuable things, they need proper care. By following these methods, you can ensure that your photographs are preserved, allowing future generations to glimpse into the past and understand their heritage. So here’s to keeping those smiles, that laughter, and those unforgettable moments alive!