Preserving old photographs

Preserving old photographs means protecting the image, its physical material and the information accompanying it. This guidance concerns routine handling and storage of paper photographs and albums. Images on glass or metal and deteriorating film need individual assessment. A photograph album can also form part of a personal archive.

Handling and enclosures

Handle photographs as little as possible and hold them carefully by their edges. Avoid touching the image surface. Use enclosures documented as suitable for photographic material. “Acid-free” alone does not mean photo-safe; the Photographic Activity Test (PAT) is used to assess enclosure suitability.

Plastic sleeves are unsuitable for some conditions. With a damaged image layer or loose hand-colouring, static electricity can detach material. Seek a photograph conservator’s advice before rehousing such images. Choose a stable storage location without excessive heat, direct sunlight or damp problems.

Retain the album’s context

Do not pull adhered photographs out of an old album. Removal can damage the image, while captions and sequence may provide historical information. As a practical example, photograph a complete album spread and record names in a separate list. Scanning provides a working copy but does not replace the original’s material and context.

Avoid cleaning unidentified photographs with water or solvents. Photographs stuck to glass or with damaged surfaces should receive specialist assessment. The Canadian Conservation Institute’s photograph guidance explains different material needs.

During estate clearance

Identify photographs and albums as material to retain before other sorting begins. When asking OBA about estate clearance and a site visit, describe the collection and what the family wishes to preserve.