Smithsonian Archives Conservation Fellow, Anna, describes how to store your photographs for safe-keeping. This is a follow-up to the video on how to safely remove photographs from magnetic, or “sticky” albums. For more archival tips and stories, visit
For resources on materials for storing your photographs, visit the Museum Conservation Institute –
Intro Music by ThoTho, “Etre Un Papillon” (
From daguerreotypes to black-and-white and color photography, it's important to know how to save, protect and store these irreplaceable memories so you and your family can enjoy them today and for future generations.
Also, do avoid those cotton gloves with rubber latex bumps on them, and cotton gloves that may have been bleached with chlorine. Happy handling!
Thanks for your question, Nicole! Anna is wearing latex-free synthetic rubber gloves, because the sulfur present in natural latex is harmful to the silver in black & white silver gelatin photographs, but close fitting polyvinyl would also be a good choice. Do look for latex-free and powder-free synthetic rubber or vinyl gloves in preference to natural latex. Luckily, these are easily found due to product awareness markings for latex-allergic persons.
Are Anna's gloves latex or vinyl, and does it matter which you use?
Fantastic idea on preserving photos!
Hi Richard,
While we can't recommend specific vendors, we can give you some tips on what to look for. If you do a web search on archival photo supplies, look for products that have passed the Photographic Activity Test, or PAT test.
Good luck on your search!
Effie, Smithsonian Institution Archives
Where can I buy the 4×6 sleeves and 5×7 sleeves. Right now I have them photo albums.