Your printed photos and memorabilia should be stored in archival containers and located in rooms with average temperatures and low humidity. Avoid basements and attics.
We’re almost ready to talk about scanning your photo collection. But before we do, you need to determine a permanent home for your photos after they’ve been digitized. It is important that your store printed photos safely.
Pass The PAT Test
Printed photos (and memorabilia) should be stored in containers designed for archiving. To be considered ‘archival,’ products must meet rigorous standards developed the Image Permanence Institute, by passing the Photographic Activity Test (PAT). The PAT test is the international standard for photographic archival storage, and you can learn more about it at the Image Permanence Institute.
Keep It Clean
Before you place your scanned prints and memorabilia into their storage containers, wipe the surface of each photo with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any residue or dust that may be on the picture. And of course, wear your gloves!
Perfect Storage Conditions
Your photo boxes and containers should be stored at room temperature with 40% humidity levels, and away from light.
Stay away from basements and attics and keep them off the ground, preferably on top shelves or the 2nd floor of your home. When floods occur, home’s fill from the basement up. Even though your collection has been digitized, and backed up with the rest of your digital images, you should strive to secure your originals to best of your ability.
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We also invite you to visit our sister blog The Photo Organizers for more tips and in-depth knowledge from some of the top photo organizing industry professionals. To find a photo organizer near you, visit the Association of Personal Photo Organizers.