Arden Hall Crafts

Conservation of Photographs and Prints

Nothing lasts forever, least of all photographs and prints. No matter how much we may cherish an image, it will eventually fade and discolour. Carefully conserved, however, the rate of decay can be measured in lifetimes, with many of us still enjoying photographs and prints that were created by by our great-grandparents.

Framing and displaying images will inevitably increase the rate of decay, dramatically so if done on the cheap. As a rule of thumb, never frame valuable or irreplaceable items. Make and display a copy rather than the original. Photographic studios will be more than happy to do this for you.

If you do decide to frame a valuable photograph or print, there is much that can be done to stave off the worst effects of ageing.

Even if you choose an 'off the shelf' frame, ask a professional framer to finish the job using conservation materials. This will help to prevent discolouration, condensation and insect infestation. This work should be relatively inexpensive and a good framer should be prepared to explain exactly what he is doing and why.
For really valuable items, consider asking your framer to use specialist glass to filter out ultra violet light, the part of sunlight that causes fading. This is a relatively expensive option and does not completely stop damage from the sun, but it will prolong the life of an image considerably (At least 90% of the damaging UV rays are filtered out).
Never frame important items so that they are in direct contact with the back board. Materials commonly used for back board will cause damage to photographs or prints.
Never frame important items so that they are in direct contact with the glass. Mount boards are not just for decoration. They provide an important gap between the subject and the glass, thus preventing condensation forming as a result of temperature changes. Always buy a frame that is larger than the subject so that there is space for a mount board to be included. If in doubt, consult a framing specialist.
NEVER display a valuable photograph, print or document in direct sunlight. Sunlight is natures bleach!

We will gladly undertake conservation work on any photograph, print or document, even if you have bought the frame from elsewhere. Your memories are precious and it can cost as little as £5 to make them last a lifetime and beyond. Contact us for details and a free quotation.