Preserving Memories

Photographs capture and, with care, can preserve precious memories. But over time, too much light, the chemicals and acids in some papers, and oils from too much handling, can destroy photographs. In addition, although the moment may be visually preserved, the names of people, places, and events may be forgotten.

Here are a few tips for preserving memories captured in snapshots.
Storage: Individual photographs, like snapshots, are best stored unmounted in clear polypropylene sleeves. If you want handy access to the photos, make your own album by using sleeves with pre-punched holes and storing them in chemically stable binders. For old albums, from which photographs cannot be removed, interweave sheets of acid-free archival tissue paper between photographs that face each other. Store albums in alkaline/buffered boxes to protect them from dust, light, and pollutants.

Identification: Keep a record of the people, places, and dates for each photo, but not on the back. Write a note on archival paper and store it in the sleeve behind the photo. It is best to use pencil. Writing on the back of the photo is not recommended because the chemicals in inks and some pencils will damage the photographic emulsion. If you use standard paper for your notes, store them outside the photo sleeve.

Pat Romero
Research Specialist