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Ever
since the invention of the camera photographs have
served as a record of human existence. Today, photographs
document our lives. They allow us to relive fond
memories, remind us of old friends and family members
and connect us with time periods we have never seen. |
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Yet,
photos do not last forever and if no effort is made
to care for them, all these memories will fade before
you in a drastically short amount of time. How photos
are stored, where they are stored and the manner
in which they are displayed are all factors that
contribute to how well a photograph will stand the
test of time. |
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Basic Structure of a Photograph
The
composition of a modern photograph consists of an
emulsion layer which covers a support layer. The
support layer may be glass, a film base or paper.
The emulsion layer is a gelatin coating that is
comprised of light-sensitive silver salts. The structure
itself aids in its own deterioration.. First of
all, the silver is easily attacked by atmospheric
conditions, which is one reason why a photograph
must be stored and displayed in an optimum environment.
Gelatin is a protein, which means that when exposed
to high humidity microorganism growth is likely
to occur. When this process takes place the top
layer of the photograph can deteriorate.
Light and Temperature
What researchers have proven over the last decade
is that light and high temperatures both play
a big role in the deteriration of photographs.
According to the Image Permanence Institute, the
higher the humidity and temperature, the shorter
the life of the photo. The colder the environment
you house your pictures in and the lower the humidity,
the better. IPI is a nonprofit research laboratory
which studies the preservation of visual and recorded
information. IPI's preservation calculator calculates
how long a photograph will last based on its long-term
environment. For example, a photo that is stored
in an environment of 84 degrees Fahrenheit and
45 percent relative humidity will last 35 years.
However, if that same photo had been stored in
an environment of 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 42
percent relative humidity it would have lasted
199 years.
Long-term exposure to light
is easier on black and white photographs than
color prints. Both types of photographs do need
to be protected from direct daylight and fluorescent
tube lighting, which can cause stains to develop
on the image and cause the photograph to fade
quickly.
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How to Store Them
Processed prints, negatives and slides should
be kept away from wood and wood products such
as plywood and low grade paper. Wood emits peroxides
that can cause damage to the photograph. It is
best to stay away from any chlorinated products
and plasticized sheetings or covers as well. Surprisingly,
photo albums are not the best idea for long term
storage either, due to the fact that they often
contain low grade paper also.
Placing your photos in single-file seamless holders,
which resemble manila folders but are made from
acid free material, is one way to protect your
pictures. Yet, the best option for storage seems
to be paper envelopes. As long as they are made
of the highest grade of paper they should keep
your photos same from harm and are a good option
for long-term storage.
Where to Store Them
The area where you store your photographs
is also important. There are some relatively simple
guidelines to follow: Keep your pictures away
from electrical wiring, which may spark. Make
sure to place them in an environment far away
from any smoke or dust as well. Lastly, do not
store them in an area close to pipes or running
water facilitates, too many people have lost pictures
in floods.
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How to Display Them
Whether you consider a photograph a work of art or just
a personal memento it is important to realize that the
materials that come in contact with your pictures should
be carefully scrutinized. Frames can often rub up against
the photo and humidity in turn causes the emulsion to
melt. A good solution to this problem is using spacers.
Manufactured by Frame Tek, spacers separate the photo
from the frame completely and come in a large variety
of sizes. Again, keep the photos in a cool environment
with low humidity and avoid direct light.
What most people do not realize is that photographs
are not permanent, they begin aging the moment after
they are developed. All you can do is provide the best
care in order to slow down the natural aging process.
By following the instructions above, you can keep your
pictures in the best possible shape and keep them around
considerably longer.
For more information see:
Why Spacers?
(Article found on Frame
Tek's Showroom in Art-Town)
A Survey on
the Deterioration of Photographic Negatives
Albumen Photographs
Standard
for Maximum Preservation Framing (10.1
and 10.2)
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