Free preservation guide

Photo preservation checklist

Work through the essential steps for preserving a family photograph. Progress is kept only while this page is open; no information about your photos is uploaded.

0 of 6 preservation steps complete

Inspect both sides and photograph any envelope, mount or inscription.Handle the item by its edges with clean, dry hands on a clear surface.Scan in color at 600 DPI and save a lossless master when practical.Give the file a consistent name and record people, place, date and source separately.Store the original in an archival-quality sleeve away from light, heat and damp.Keep at least three digital copies on two storage types, with one in another location.

Damaged historical photograph — Digitize damage before it progresses

Restored access copy — Digitize damage before it progresses

Preservation and restoration are different

Preservation protects the physical original and its faithful scan. Restoration creates a derivative for access or display. Keep both, and label the restored version clearly.

Avoid common preservation mistakes

Do not laminate, tape, glue or write on an original photograph.
Do not clean fragile emulsions or cased photographs with liquid.
Do not rely on one phone, cloud account or external drive.

Make a separate restoration copy

Repair visible damage while keeping your untouched preservation scan safe and unchanged.