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Three key groups are involved in the preservation of fine art photography.
- Manufacturers must produce inherently stable materials.
- Photographers must select and use the most stable materials available.
- Owners of the photographs must ensure that the photographs are properly cared for to avoid damage or deterioration.
When you purchase one of my images, here’s what you receive:
All of my images are original digital prints. I print using the best and most appropriate paper and ink available. I then coat the prints with a thin layer of UV-resistant and water-resistant lacquer that is specially made for the ink and paper combination. As paper, ink, and printing technology improves, I will take advantage of new developments. With proper care, all of my prints should last more than 150 years with no change in color.
The weakest links in the longevity of a mounted print are the mat and mounting board. I use the finest archival materials available for these items, but the life of a white mat is no more than 50 years and the life of a colored mat is even shorter. These are the limits of longevity for mats and mounting boards labeled "conservation", "archival", or "museum grade."
Because the mat and mounting board are the weak links, I mount all my images using a process that is completely reversible. Several elements are involved in my matting and mounting process.
- The photograph is printed with oversize margins.
- The photograph is fastened to the mounting board using Mylar mounting corners, with no adhesive touching any part of the photograph.
- The mat is hinged to the mounting board with removable linen tape.
In addition to satisfying preservation needs, this process ensures that the owner of the photograph can remove the photograph and reframe it or change the mat with little risk of damage.
After you purchase one of my images, here’s what you can do to make sure it can be enjoyed for many years:
- If the image is not in a frame, frame it behind UV-resistant glass or acrylic.
- Display or store the image in a comfortable environment—68° F with relative humidity in the range of 30%—40% is ideal.
- Most important, be sure the photograph does not receive direct sunlight or light from fluorescent or halogen bulbs. Filtered natural light and light from incandescent bulbs are fine.
My goal is that when you find an image you love, that image will remain as beautiful as it was the day you first saw it.
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