Did you know that storing print photos in the wrong materials can cause them to degrade faster? Sure, most people have moved on from print photos. This shouldn’t be shocking news. The ease and convenience of having a camera in our pocket makes printed photography look like a huge hassle. Have you ever explained to a 10-year-old how you used to drop off film rolls, then wait a day to see your prints? Nothing will make you feel older.
But for many people, there’s just something special about holding physical snapshots in your hands. Those tangible memories capture life’s most spectacular moments in a way that digital images just can’t match.
Why Preservation Matters
Preserving those printed photos is important. The first step to do this is to digitize your collection. But what do you do with the physical prints after that process is complete? The answer is how you go about storing print photos.
If you don’t store your photos properly, all kinds of disasters are possible – they can fade, begin to yellow, even start to stick together. What this means is that instead of one day handing down your photo collection to future generations to enjoy, you are essentially giving them a box of trash to deal with.
Photos are so much more than just pretty pictures. They’re a link to the past that families treasure. They are a window into your history, a way to share stories and connect with loved ones. They are also a great way to tease your siblings about awkward haircuts and fashion choices.
They are a way to remember and to be remembered.
That’s why it’s so crucial to choose the best storage materials to keep your irreplaceable photo collection protected. After reading this post, you will understand the best ways to store your physical photographs and snapshots.
Understanding Photo Degradation
Understanding how and why photos begin to degrade is key to preserving them. The most common causes of damage include light exposure, temperature fluctuations, and chemical reactions.
Environmental Considerations
Creating the right environment for photo storage is vital for long-term preservation. Ideal storage conditions include:
Avoid storing photos in basements or attics, where temperature and humidity fluctuations are common. Remember that photographs enjoy living where you live. You wouldn’t want to live in your garage, basement, or attic either!
Essential Materials for Storing Print Photos
The chemical reactions that cause damage when storing print photos are often the result of using the wrong type of storage materials.
For instance, acidic paper or poor-quality plastic can trigger chemical changes that discolor or weaken photographs over time. The acids and other components found in low-quality paper products can interact with the coating on photographs. And by “interact” I mean stick to your photos. Now, the items you purchased to protect your photos become the reason for them to tear, yellow, or fade.
Similarly, plastics that are not archival-safe can off-gas chemicals that are harmful to photographs.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a particularly problematic plastic, as it releases harmful gases that can start the breakdown of the image dyes. Even everyday office supplies like rubber bands or paper clips can leave stains or creases if left in contact with photos for extended periods.
You need to know what your storage materials are made of. This is so important, as any acidic or unstable compounds can set in motion the chain reaction. This is why professional photo managers and organizers recommend choosing archival-quality, acid-free and lignin-free papers.
Taking the time to select the right storage materials upfront will pay dividends in preserving your photo collection for the long haul.
Photo Albums
Photo albums are a classic choice for organizing and protecting photographs. When selecting an album, double check that they contain acid-free pages to prevent the chemical reactions mentioned in the previous section.
PVC-free plastic sleeves are another important feature to look for in albums. Look for polyethylene or polypropylene sleeves will prolong the life of your images. Additionally, archival-quality options offer the best protection, designed specifically to prevent degradation.
It’s equally important to be aware of what to avoid. Stay clear of albums with any adhesive used to hold photos in place. These adhesives can cause long-term damage and make it difficult to remove photos without tearing.
Storage Boxes
For those with larger collections, storage boxes provide a practical solution. Select archival-quality boxes that offer superior protection against environmental factors and chemical reactions. Metal and cardboard are common options, each with its own benefits. Metal boxes are durable and offer excellent protection, while archival-grade cardboard boxes are lightweight and easy to store.
When choosing storage boxes, size considerations are important. Ensure the box is large enough to hold your photos without bending or folding them. Proper stacking techniques should be employed to prevent boxes from collapsing or damaging the contents within.
Individual Photo Protection
Archival storage for individual photos are made from safe materials to protect against from dust, moisture, and touch. Individual photo protection is another great way of preserving your collection. These include archival quality sleeves, envelopes, and folders for photographs, negatives, and other types of media.
Another type of protection is interleaving papers placed between photos. These can further protect photographs from abrasion and chemical reactions. Photo envelopes offer another layer of protection, ideal for storing individual images or small batches.
Cost Analysis
Preserving your photo collection doesn’t need to break the bank. There are budget-friendly options available, such as basic acid-free albums or archival sleeves. Investing in high-quality materials, however, can be worthwhile for long-term preservation and peace of mind.
Consider the long-term cost benefits of using archival-quality materials. A major benefit is that by preventing damage they also reduce the need for future restoration – a process that is time-consuming and expensive.
Always purchase supplies from reputable retailers, such as Archival Methods. On top of offering a wide range of reliable products, you also get them at a fair price.
Maintenance Tips
- Don’t worry – you won’t have to check on your photos daily. However, regular by establishing a routine inspection, you can catch any signs of deterioration early.
- Handle photos with clean hands or use cotton gloves to prevent oils and dirt from causing damage.
- When cleaning, use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust.
When in doubt or if damage occurs, seek professional help to safely restore your photos without causing further harm.
Conclusion
By carefully selecting storage materials, your physical photos can remain intact for future generations. Don’t wait for your photos to turn yellow and start sticking together. Take action today. Start by checking what your current storage methods are.
If what you’re currently using isn’t archival quality, check out some options to upgrade. For further guidance and support, feel free to contact me.