Storing Master Photos

Saving photographs for future generations means more than sticking them in a photo album.

Brother
50 years on having the original brings back memories of that moment. Knowing there safe online gives faith it will last forever.

Photographic material is made up of several layers.

Support layer (base): In the case of prints this is either fibre based photographic paper or resin coated paper (B&W and colour prints post 1970). For negative and transparencies this will be either cellulose nitrate (1890-1950) cellulose acetate (c.1925 to present) or polyester (1960 onwards).

Image layer (emulsion): Generally this is composed of a gelatin emulsion containing image forming materials. The most common image forming materials are silver in the case of black and white material and chromogenic dyes for colour material.

Each of these layers has its own particular deterioration characteristics and, in some cases, have different storage requirements

There are a variety of suitable storage solutions that can be used for long-term storage of your photographic collection.

  • Use of a multi-layered system i.e. sleeve, box, frames will provide you with increased protection.
  • Store in acid-free photo boxes, enclosures or an album.
  • Avoid storing photos in a magnetic album or those made from PVA or PVC plastic, as they can damage photos.
  • Keep photos out of direct sunlight, and away from moisture and temperature fluctuations.
  • Store flat in a dark spot to prevent fading.

Plastics: Plastic sleeves, envelopes and bags are suitable for storing prints and negatives in good condition. They should be made of a chemically inert material such as uncoated polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene. Avoid enclosures made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as this produces harmful products when it deteriorates.

Paper: Archival quality acid free paper envelopes are suitable for storing prints and deteriorated negatives. It is generally recommended that the paper be unbuffered as some photographic processes react adversely to buffered papers. Seamless envelopes are preferred.

Albums: When choosing an album there are several things you need to be aware of. Avoid self-adhesive albums (also known as magnetic albums) and any products that contain PVC plastics. Use archival quality photo-corners to adhere photographs to pages in non-adhesive albums.

Store prints safely

Picture Frames

When framing a photograph ensure that the backing and insert are of long-lasting quality materials. Avoid wooden frames, which may be constructed using glues and varnishes. These may break down over time to form gases harmful to the photograph.

Try to minimise the amount of light exposure while on display. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and if possible use an ultraviolet light filtering glazing in the frame. Colour photographs are particularly susceptible to deterioration by over exposure to intense light.

Avoid hanging locations near heating or cooling sources as these will produce adverse temperature and moisture conditions that can affect the photograph.