Rubber cement and similar adhesives are surprisingly deadly when used on or even near photographs. The acid in them causes rapid aging and cracking of the emulsion and paper backing. The organic compounds in them cause the image to fade, and the sulfur they contain reacts with the silver.
This is the new home page for Ralph McKnight's helpful tips on photo preservation and restoration. Yes, photo archivists are welcome, but this site is being developed with the average person in mind.
Q:
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Which is it better to copy or scan: negatives, slides, or prints? |
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Often dust or scratches will determine the answer to this question, but generally, a properly-preserved slide or negative will outlast the print made from it and will produce a noticeably better copy print than will a print. This is because when light is transmitted through an image, it carries many times more color and shade intensities than when light is reflected from an image.
When copying or scanning photographs, look for an original negative or slide first. Remember too that photographs produced by professionals are usually copyrighted property (look for the photographer's logo), and are thus subject to copyright laws.
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Check back often to see new tips and ideas for how to keep your old photographs from being damaged or stored improperly.
Please direct comments to rgmcknight@yahoo.com
