Tips on Archiving Photos

If you have old photos that you would like to preserve, you must know how to store them properly in order to keep them in good condition. This will ensure that your photos will last for years to come.

Here are some tips to help you with archiving your photos:

Scanning Photos

• If you have a lot of printed photos that you would like to preserve, it is best to scan them. This may be quite a daunting task but it’s a good practice for keeping a back-up copy of your photos. Remember to set the scanner for color photo or black and white photo.
• Make sure that the glass of the scanner is free of dirt, hair, fingerprints or other foreign objects. You can use a microfiber cloth or a lens cloth to ensure that you don’t scratch the surface.
• Choose a scan resolution that fits your needs. It is best to use at least 300dpi for archiving but if you plan to store the photos in a DVD, use 600dpi for better results.

Albums for Storage

• There are numerous photo albums available to store your photos in. When choosing, opt for one that is acid-free. Acid free albums prevent your photos from yellowing over time.
• Use photo corners instead of adhesive when attaching your photos in the album. This is the easier solution if you want to transfer your photos without damaging them.
• Choose albums with page protectors. Page protectors prevent your photos from sticking to other pages since it limits the contact with other photos in the album.

Storing Negatives

• Keep your film negatives in film sleeves. Doing this is advantageous, especially if you plan to have them printed in the future.
• Store the negatives in an acid-free envelope or box. It is also useful to label the negatives accordingly so that you can easily find what you are looking for when the time comes that you have a wide collection of negatives in storage.
• Place the boxes that you use for storage in high shelves to prevent damage if there is a flood. Also, make sure that the area where you store it is well ventilated and not directly hit by sunlight.

written by jeanmendoza on 2011-12-14 #gear #tutorials #storage #films #tipster #archives #archiving