But many family historians have been horrified to find a stash of priceless photos stuck together, cracked, bent, faded or mildewed. Here are guidelines for protecting and displaying these historic photographs.
Photos are typically made up of three main layers: the image material, the support to which the image is adhered, and the binder which holds the two together. Any or all of these may become damaged in a variety of ways.
Environmental Factors can Damage Vintage Photos
Heat, humidity, and exposure to light are prime causes of vintage photo deterioration. All three create chemical changes in the compounds that make up the photo. The image can fade, become blotchy or change colors. The support material may separate, curl, or disintegrate. Humidity can encourage mold growth on the photo.Other chemical reactions can cause damage to old photos, especially when stored or displayed with non-acid-free products. Film-based negatives can produce acid gases, and should be stored separately from the photographs.
Use Archival Products for Photo Storage
Safe photo storage includes using archival quality products. Old vinyl sheet protectors release chemicals that can lead to deterioration. “Magnetic” and other self-adhesive photo albums contain materials that can leave damaging residues on vintage photos. Even paper and picture frames can contain high-acid wood pulp.Today’s archival products are created with long-term stability in mind. Archival sheet protectors and other plastic sleeves should be made of uncoated polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene. Album paper, paper envelopes, and paper photo mounting corners should be lignin-free and 100 percent rag or alpha-cellulose fibers. They should be white or off-white, not dyed.
Frame and Display Old Photos Carefully
Old photographic images vary in stability, according to what process was used to create them. Direct sunlight will damage any photograph, and even unfiltered fluorescent lights can accelerate fading.If antique photos are being framed and displayed, never place them where direct light from a window will touch them, and be careful what other lights are used in the area. Ultraviolet-filtering glass can reduce the effects of light somewhat. Make sure the frame, mat, and mounting material are archival quality. If a frame shop does not have archival products, ask if you can provide your own.
Daguerreotypes, Tintypes and Ambrotypes: Professional Conservator Required
When the original photographic process reproduced the image directly on to metal or glass, as with daguerreotypes, tintypes and ambrotypes, the resulting photo is easily scratched or destroyed. These types of antique photos were enclosed in glass for protection, and then often kept or displayed in a wooden frame.The problem now is that the glass may have cracked, become dirty, or otherwise deteriorated, but removing the glass from the photo can damage the photo irreparably. Any family historian with a daguerreotype, tintype or ambrotype should consult a professional conservator for advice and assistance. A museum with photographic collections can help locate an appropriate professional.
Scan Old Photos for Preservation
While genealogists and history lovers want to preserve their photos, many still want to enjoy them on a daily basis. The best solution for any priceless photo is to keep it in appropriate archival quality storage in a safe place, and to frame and display a reprint instead. This also protects against disasters such as fire or flood.Today’s digital imaging technology is accessible to anyone with a computer. Photos can be scanned and retouched, and then multiple copies made and distributed, all while the original lies safely tucked away.
Actually good Design Solutions post.Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteclipping path service
Photo Editing ServicesGhost Mannequin services
awesome....really beautiful.
ReplyDeleteClipping Path |
Clipping Path, shadow-service |
shadow service |