services

conservation

Photograph Conservation

The NEDCC paper conservation laboratory treats photographs and photographic materials as well as art and artifacts on paper. Because many photographic images have paper supports, paper conservation techniques are often used for their treatment. Photographs, however, are complex objects that may also have metal or glass supports and can be very different from paper objects. Conservators must be able to identify not only the various photographic materials, but also the processes used to create them.

In order to choose a treatment, a conservator often needs information from the client. For example, how the photograph will be used or whether it will be treated as a single object or as part of a collection may affect the treatment proposal. As with paper conservation, all procedures must honor the photograph's artistic and/or historic integrity, and the materials used must be chemically stable, reversible, and not harmful to the photograph.

Treatment does not commence until the client authorizes the proposal. Photographs are taken before, occasionally during, and after treatment. Copies of the photographs are given to the client along with a full written report.

Common treatment procedures for photographs include: surface cleaning to reduce superficial dirt; controlled washing to remove deterioration products and discoloration; stain reduction; removal of secondary supports if these supports are dangerous or destructive and not original; filling losses with inserts and mending creases and tears; and remounting of photographic prints that need stabilization or strengthening. Sometimes, removal of old repairs made with harmful materials or adhesives, or the consolidation of flaking is necessary. Glass plate photographic materials may be cleaned, repaired and housed in protective mounts, and cased photographs may be cleaned, consolidated, and their cases repaired.

If treatment is not practical, duplication of historical prints and/or negatives or digital restoration may be a logical and cost-effective alternative, and this service can be provided by NEDCC's Imaging Services department.

To receive treatment recommendations and cost estimates, photographs may be brought to NEDCC. There is no charge for a brief consultation with a conservator. If it is not possible to come in person, objects can be sent. For suggestions on packing methods and carriers, please see our Packing and shipping instructions.

For additional information, please contact Monique Fischer, Senior Photograph Conservator, at (978) 470-1010 or or Walter Newman, Director of Paper Conservation Services at