Caring for Your Printed Family Photographs

Printed photographs carry your finest memories, and taking care of them ensures they last for generations. Simple choices in where you display and store your prints can make a world of difference to their lifetime.

Light and moisture are the main causes of damage to physical prints. Hang your framed photos away from direct sunlight, which can cause colours to fade over time. Avoid damp rooms such as bathrooms or cold basements, as humidity can cause the paper to warp or stick to the glass.

When framing your pictures, use acid-free mounts and backing boards. Standard cardboard contains chemicals that can yellow your photographs as the years pass. A proper mount also keeps the surface of the print from touching the glass directly.

For photos you keep in storage, choose archival boxes rather than plastic tubs or magnetic photo albums. Keep the boxes in a dry place with a steady temperature, such as a hall cupboard or under a bed.

If you have any questions about printing or framing your portraits, please get in touch with us.