Handling & Care of Your Photograph

Proper handling of your photo is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent damage.  I’ve put together this list of tips to help you keep your investment in pristine condition for many years.

Unpacking Your Photograph

• Do not use a sharp blade or scissors to cut the packaging tape.  Doing so will risk cutting or marking your photo.  Pull the tape off of the packaging.
• Fold tape so that all sticky sides are not exposed to ensure you do not get the tape stuck to or the tape glue on your photo.
• Unfold any creased parts of the package containing the photo before pulling it out to prevent damage to corners and edges of your photo.

Handling Your Photograph

• Always wash your hands before touching your photograph.
• Never touch the surface of your photo with your finger as this can transfer oils from your skin onto your photo.
• Always use both hands to pick up photo and make sure back of photo is supported to prevent bending.
• If there is something on your photo, do not try to remove it with your finger or by blowing on it with your mouth as you risk scratching and spitting on your photo.  

Exposure to Elements

• Keep your print out of direct sunlight to prevent cracking or fading.  Also, fluorescent lights do emit ultraviolet rays that can harm your photo.
• Hang your print away from areas of airborne grime, dust and pollutants as these can damage and discolor your photo.
• Avoid extreme fluctuations in moisture and temperature as this can negatively affect your photo.  Do not hang your photo above a fireplace.  If the humidity is too high, watch for mold.

Framing

• It is recommended that you have your photograph framed by a professional
• Use a good quality glass specifically designed for protecting fine art and photographic images.  I also recommend using an acid-free archival mat to prevent the print and glass from touching.

Cleaning

• The print should be dusted with a clean, soft rag, to prevent dust buildup.  Never use cleaning products or water as this will permanently damage the print.
• Do not blow on your print as you may inadvertently deposit water droplets that can mark your print.
• If using compressed air, apply short bursts while keeping the nozzle at least 12” back from the face of the print.

Storage

• To prevent accidents, store your print away from anything that might press against the image surface.  Some objects may not seem sharp enough to damage the print, but you’d be surprised at what will cause a scratch, tear, or rip.
• Do not stack prints on top of each other.  Separate them with pieces of acid-free paper to avoid damage.
• Wrap your print well if you plan to transport it.  Be sure to put a piece of acid-free paper over the front to protect the print.  Rough handling can damage the print so pack it securely.
• Do not cover your print with plastic for long periods of time.  If there is humidity in the air, mold may begin to grow.  Cotton, acid-free sheets are the best for keeping dust away.

I hope you find these tips for handling and caring for your photographs helpful.  And, implement them to give the photographs you have invested in a long life.

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