PRINT CARE

How to Care for a Photograph Print: A Comprehensive Guide

Proper care and handling of your photographic prints ensure they stay vibrant and well-preserved for years to come. Follow these simple steps to help maintain the quality of your prints. Here's how to care for your photograph print:

1. Handling Your Prints

  • Wash Your Hands: Always wash and dry your hands before handling your prints. Oils, dirt, and moisture can damage the image or leave fingerprints on the paper.

  • Use Clean Surfaces: Work on clean, dry, and flat surfaces when handling prints. A soft, lint-free cloth or gloves can help protect the surface of the print.

  • Avoid Touching the Image Area: Try to handle your prints by the edges to avoid leaving oils or marks on the image itself. If you must touch the print, use cotton gloves.

2. Framing and Displaying Prints

  • Use UV-Protective Glass or Acrylic: When framing your print, choose glass or acrylic that has UV protection. This helps prevent fading caused by exposure to sunlight and artificial lighting.

  • Choose Acid-Free Materials: Opt for acid-free mats, backing boards, and frames. Acidic materials can deteriorate the paper over time, leading to discoloration and damage.

  • Frame with Space: Ensure the print is mounted in a way that it does not touch the glass or acrylic. A small spacer can prevent the image from sticking to the surface.

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Display your photograph prints away from direct sunlight or harsh artificial light. UV rays can cause colors to fade, and prolonged exposure can degrade the paper.

  • Climate Control: Keep framed prints in a controlled environment with stable temperature and humidity. Extreme fluctuations in temperature or moisture levels can cause the print to warp, crack, or fade.

3. Storing Prints

  • Store Flat, Not Rolled: If you're storing your prints, avoid rolling them, as this can cause creases or damage. Instead, store prints flat in an archival-quality portfolio or box.

  • Keep Prints in Protective Sleeves: If you don’t frame the prints right away, store them in archival-quality sleeves made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyester. These materials are acid-free and offer a protective layer.

  • Avoid Plastic Sleeves with PVC: PVC can release harmful chemicals over time that can degrade the print. Stick to safe, archival materials.

  • Climate-Controlled Storage: Just like displaying prints, store your photographs in a climate-controlled environment. Ideal conditions include temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C) and humidity levels of around 30-50%.

4. Cleaning Prints

  • Dust Gently: If dust accumulates on the surface of your print, use a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft-bristled brush to gently remove it. Avoid using any cleaning liquids unless necessary.

  • Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Products: Never use rough cloths, paper towels, or abrasive materials on your photograph. These can scratch or damage the surface.

  • Use a Professional Cleaner for Stubborn Stains: If your print gets stained or dirty, take it to a professional conservator for cleaning, especially if it's a rare or valuable print. Cleaning photographs improperly at home can lead to irreversible damage.

5. Protecting Prints from Damage

  • Avoid Handling Frequently: Minimize handling and exposure to air to protect prints from wear and tear. The less you handle them, the less risk there is of accidental damage.

  • Avoid Sharp Objects: When framing or storing prints, keep sharp objects away to prevent accidental cuts or punctures.

  • Do Not Store Prints Near Heat Sources: Avoid placing prints near heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or direct exposure to air conditioners. These can cause the paper to dry out or warp over time.

  • Avoid Contact with Water: Water can cause irreversible damage to photographs, so keep prints away from humid or wet areas. If a print accidentally gets wet, dry it immediately by blotting it gently with a soft cloth, and seek professional help if necessary.

6. Longevity of Your Print

  • Know the Paper Type: Different paper types have different lifespans. Fine art papers or archival-quality papers are designed to last longer than regular photo papers, often for decades if properly cared for.

  • Be Aware of Print Editions: Limited edition prints, especially those signed and numbered by the artist, often appreciate in value. Ensure these are stored and handled with extra care to maintain their integrity.

7. Repairs and Restoration

  • Seek Professional Help: If a print gets damaged, whether it’s from fading, tearing, or water exposure, seek help from a professional conservator or restoration specialist. Restoration is a delicate process, and experts can restore the print to its original condition while preserving its value.

Conclusion

Taking proper care of your photograph prints ensures they remain beautiful and in excellent condition for years to come. By handling them carefully, storing them properly, and avoiding exposure to damaging environmental factors, you can preserve both the visual integrity and the sentimental value of your prints.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy your photographs and keep them looking their best for generations to come.