Photographs capture irreplaceable moments, but they're vulnerable to damage over time. In our popular Photo Preservation 101 webinar, expert Rebecca Elder explains how different types of photos deteriorate and shares practical preservation tips.
This recording delivers actionable advice on storage, light exposure, and handling—perfect for family snapshots or historical collections. Rebecca's engaging presentation makes complex topics easy to understand.
Short on time? Jump to the full webinar recording.
Watch These Key Clips
You'll Learn:
- How photographs are built and why their layered structure (support, binder, image) reacts differently to humidity, light, and age.
- Storage essentials like separating originals from copies, using Photographic Activity Test-approved materials, and grouping similar sizes for full support.
- Paper vs. plastic enclosures—when to choose each, plus tips for albums and large formats.
- Light and environment control to prevent fading, mold and embrittlement, including why copies are best for display.
- Safe handling techniques with nitrile gloves, edge-only grips, and no rubber bands or sticky notes to avoid fingerprints and tears.
Watch the full recording now to learn the basics of photo preservation.
Rebecca's Favorite Preservation Resources:
- Graphic Atlas - A useful website for understanding and identifying photographic processes.
- Image Permanence Institute (IPI) - Look here for high-level research on photo storage.
- Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) Preservation Leaflets - Well-regarded brief readings on a wide range of preservation topics created by a large regional conservation center.
- National Park Service (NPS) Conserve-o-Grams - Short leaflets on the care of museum objects, including many specific topics.
- National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) Tips for Preserving Your Family Treasures - Easy tips for caring for family treasures created by professionals at the Smithsonian.
- American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Caring for Your Belongings - Brief readings on caring for family treasures created by the professional association for conservators.
Rebecca Elder
Owner of Elder Preservation
Cultural Heritage Professional
Rebecca Elder is a cultural heritage preservation consultant with extensive experience in helping clients preserve their history collections. She offers tailored preservation plans for various institutions and is known for her warm and supportive professional style.