Protecting Printed Photographs…

Photography may be almost entirely digital these days but printed photographs are still quite popular. Chances are, you have stacks of printed photographs stored somewhere in your home or office. In light of a new year and fresh starts, take a bit of time to make sure your valuable printed photographs are properly organized, protected and stored.

Have the Right Tools in Place: You don’t need very much for your organizing project—just a few archival-quality photo storage boxes and maybe an acid-free photo album or two. Also make sure to pick up an acid-free pen for writing on the backs of photographs or other items. In this instance, archival and acid-free products are extremely important in protecting your images for the long term. We stock a variety of these quality products, so stop by the store and let us help you get everything you need!

Consider Corners: When working on a photo album or scrapbook, consider forgoing glue to secure the backs of your photographs to the pages (unless it is acid-free) and use photo corners instead. Photo corners come in a number of colors and cuts and add visual interest to your scrapbook layout in addition to keeping pictures in place.

No Attic Necessary: Oftentimes, when people think of storing their printed or heirloom photographs, placing boxes in attics may come to mind. Instead of tucking them far away and possibly subjecting them to extreme changes in temperature and humidity, select an area of a bookshelf or other accessible area in your home instead. It’s best to have them stored in a climate-controlled environment and one with normal ventilation.

Another reason to keep the pictures in arm’s reach? It just might encourage a stroll down memory lane and encourage children and other family members to bring the photographs out and ask questions about their ancestry and history. Children are often fascinated by their family history and by relatives who have since passed on. Sharing what you know and reminiscing through old photographs is a great way to pass along stories and connect with family.

Vintage Photo Protection: If you have very old family photographs, it may be time to make a digital copy. Bring them to our store so that we can create a high quality archival scan for you and discuss the restoration options we offer. Having a digital copy will give additional peace of mind and will also allow you to share the image with family members who might want a copy for their own records and enjoyment.

Displaying Your Favorites: Select some of your favorite photographs and frame them so that they can be part of your ongoing conversations and reflections. When selecting a frame, aluminum designs are best as they are unaffected by changes in humidity. Also, make sure that your frames use UV resistant glass to protect the images from the elements. Try displaying them in areas not washed in direct sunlight for an added layer of protection.

Ignore other projects: Yes, protecting these precious memories are THAT important. After all, do you ever hear people say they would rush into a burning house to rescue their laundry? It’s the photo albums that top the list.