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Old photos can be a window to the past. They capture moments and memories with immense sentimental value. It’s important to store them and preserve them correctly to ensure that future generations can enjoy these precious snapshots. These tips will help you protect and store your old photos.
- Grab Your Photos
Gather all of your old photos in albums, boxes and other storage areas. Before you start the preservation process, make sure that you have collected all of the photos you wish to keep in one location.
- Organize and label
Sort your photos by categories or themes. Label each picture with the relevant information such as dates, names and locations. This will not only help you remember but will also provide valuable context to future generations.
- Digitize Your Photos
Consider scanning your old photos and creating digital backups. If you scan your photos in high resolution, and save them to your computer or cloud storage, even if your physical copies start to degrade with time, you will still be able access the images. If you don’t own a scanner, there are many services that offer scanning.
- Use acid-free materials
Use photo-safe albums and sleeves to store physical photos. Acid-free materials protect photos from deterioration due to chemical reactions.
- Store photos in a cool, dry place
Select a location for storage that is cool and dry. Avoid direct sunlight. Extremes of temperature and humidity may accelerate the deterioration of photos. Avoid damp places such as basements, attics and damp areas.
- Protect your photos from light
Photos can fade and degrade if they are exposed to sunlight. If you plan to display your photos, keep them in the dark. You can also use UV-filtered plastic or glass frames.
- Handle Photos Carefully
Handle photos only with dry, clean hands to prevent the transfer of oils and dirt. Use white cotton gloves to handle valuable or fragile images. Hold the photos at their edges.
- Vertically Store Photos
Stack photos vertically instead of horizontally. Stacking photos can cause them to bend, crease, or stick.
- Avoid Adhesive Tape
Avoid using adhesive tapes or glues on photos as they may damage the photo and paper. Consult a professional conservator if photos are damaged or torn.
- Regularly inspect and maintain
Check your photos periodically for signs of degradation, such as discoloration or mold growth. Take immediate action if you see any problems.
- Share your Photos
Share old photos with your family and friends. Sharing old photos with loved ones not only makes you happy, but it also ensures the stories behind them are passed on through the generations.
- Create a backup
Store duplicate copies of the scanned images in multiple locations. It adds another layer of security against data loss.
Follow these steps to ensure that old family photos will remain an important part of the history of your family for many years. This is a meaningful and thoughtful way to preserve these memories and connect with your family’s past.
This post was written by a professional at Greenbar Storage. Greenbar Storage has a wide range of storage units available in Prineville, Oregon. They offer a variety, including ground-level access, security cameras, 24/7 accessibility, and parking spaces. Locally owned and operated, we are the best choice for convenient and clean storage solutions in the Prineville, Oregon region. All of our commercial storage clients accept deliveries from businesses.
