services & pricing

Your printed photos carry something digital files cannot replace — the texture of time, the handwritten notes, the corners softened from being held. Archival preservation gives your originals a safe home so they remain protected for generations.
Many families choose this service after photo organizing or photo scanning, when they feel ready to preserve what they’ve gathered with intention and care.

archival preservation

why archival storage matters

The boxes and albums many families have used over the years were not designed to protect photos long term. Adhesives, acidic papers, and old plastics often cause yellowing, fading, brittleness, and chemical breakdown that can permanently damage your images.

Archival materials prevent this by creating a safe environment that protects your photos from deterioration. These materials are acid free, lignin free, and meet PAT standards, meaning they are tested and approved for long term photo preservation.

Negatives are also given special care. They often hold the highest quality version of an image, so storing them in archival sleeves prevents scratches, dust damage, and deterioration.
Archival preservation ensures your family’s memories are stored in materials that will protect them well into the future.

the process

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

Step One
We review your collection and discuss your goals.

Step Two
If needed, photos are gently removed from damaging albums using safe, recommended methods.

Step Three
Each item is placed into archival boxes and sleeves that protect the collection and reflect the structure we created through organizing or scanning.

Step Four
Your newly preserved archive is returned to you with clear labels and simple care instructions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need archival storage?
It is optional but highly recommended if you want your original photos to remain safe long term.

Can my photos stay in their original albums?
Yes if the album is archival safe and in good condition. If an album is causing damage, I will let you know and we can decide the best option together.

Can you handle delicate or damaged items?
Yes. Fragile items are handled gently. If something requires a conservator, I will guide you through that step.

Can you work with moldy photographs?
If mold is mild and contained, some items can be stabilized. Severe or active mold must be treated by a professional conservator.

Do you have training in archival preservation?
Yes. I am certified through The Photo Managers and follow industry best practices for handling, organizing, and preserving printed photo collections.

ready to begin?

If you are ready to give your photos a safe home for generations, reach out to me to start your project.
Contact me to start your project →

Long term protection for your photos, albums, and family history

TEMPORARY STORAGE VS ARCHIVAL STORAGE

During the organizing process, temporary storage such as clean bins or craft boxes is perfectly appropriate. These allow flexibility while your collection is being sorted.

Archival storage happens at the end of the project. By that point, the full collection is understood and the correct archival boxes, sleeves, and dividers can be chosen based on size, orientation, and quantity. This allows the finished archive to be both protective and thoughtfully structured.

what is included

Every collection is carefully preserved using materials made for long term protection.

This includes:
• Acid free archival photo boxes
• Archival sleeves and dividers when needed
• Simple and clear labeling
• Safe removal from harmful albums
• Protection for prints, albums, documents, and negatives
• Guidance on how to store and care for your preserved archive

All materials used meet industry standards for long term preservation.

HANDLING DELICATE OR DAMAGED PHOTOS

Some photos require extra care, especially older prints that may be brittle, curled, or stuck to album pages. These items are handled gently using industry recommended methods to avoid further damage. If I discover an item that requires the expertise of a professional conservator, I will let you know before moving forward so you can decide the best next step.

WHAT ABOUT MOLD

If your collection shows signs of mold, the items will be assessed first. Mild cases may be contained safely. More severe or active mold must be treated by a professional conservator to protect both your photos and your health. I will guide you in determining the safest option.

ALBUM DECISIONS

Some albums can be kept exactly as they are. Others are made of materials that cause damage over time and may need to be deconstructed. Together, we can decide the best option for your family.

• If an album is archival safe and in good condition, it can be preserved as is
• If an album is damaging the photos, they can be gently removed
• Handwritten notes can be saved or transferred when possible
• Albums that tell part of your family story can be kept together within archival storage

Your collection remains intact, meaningful, and safe.

pricing

Pricing depends on the size of your collection, the condition of your albums, and the archival materials required. You will receive an estimate before work begins so everything feels clear and predictable.

why families choose archival preservation

Archival preservation is ideal when:

• You want long term protection for your original prints
• Your albums are sticky, brittle, or starting to deteriorate
• You want your archive to last for future generations
• You have completed photo organizing or photo scanning and want a safe storage solution
• You want your memories to have a meaningful, long lasting home

If you are unsure whether your collection needs archival storage, I am happy to help you decide.