Presenting Polaroids Part 2: Conservation Tactics
SX-70 photos have their own very unique issues that are not well understood compared to photo emulsions on a paper base. However, there are several conservation measures that can be observed:
Although SX-70 films develop in 15 minutes, it takes significantly longer for the prints to dry. Current Polaroid advice is that SX-70 films should not be compressed (in an album) or sealed (in a frame or plastic sleeve) for at least 30 days after exposure.
As with most photographic materials Polaroids are sensitive to UV light exposure which, over time, can result in fading. If framed, ideally photos should be behind UV glass or acrylic glazing. At minimum, position framed photos so that they will not be hit by direct sunlight.
Like most photographic materials, ideally Polaroids should be stored or displayed in a cool, moderately dry environment. In 1983, Polaroid Corporation recommended a relative humidity of 30-50% and a temperature of 16-21° C. that fluctuates no more than 4° C. That’s likely good, sound advice for current SX-70 films as well. However, it’s pretty hard to achieve in a non-museum space. Instead, try to avoid attics and basements, radiators and heat vents and don’t refrigerate your exposed film images.
Avoid bending the film excessively as it can cause a separation of the image from its base. There is no remedy if this happens.
Don’t cut SX-70 film as the image could detach from the base. Again, there is no remedy if this happens. By extension, mounting photos with push pins or thumb tack is not a good idea either.
Although SX-70 integral films are plastic sandwiches, it is still prudent to mount, mat and frame them using archival materials. If possible use materials that are certified ANSI IT 9.16 or ISO 14523:1999 (since revised to ISO 18916:2007). At minimum, look for materials that are labelled acid-free (minimum PH 7.0). For example, the label for Scotch Double-Sided Scrapbooking Tape says it meets the ISO 14523:1999 photo-safe standard and that it is acid-free with a pH of 7.0-8.0.
Mount photos so that the photo can be removed without physically damaging the photo. Do not use adhesives (tape or glue) to directly attach photos to their mounts. Instead, use non-physical attachment approaches, such as polyester photo corners with an acid-free, photo safe adhesive that doesn’t come into contact with the photo. This allows a photo to be easily removed if it requires physical repair or conservation. More pragmatically, if you want to change-up a framed or album photo, photo corners make it easy by gently bending the Polaroid out of the corners and replacing it with another photo. That’s the great thing about SX-70s: they are all identical in size whether created in 1972 or 2022!
Of course, some of these conservation measures are not always practical. In my own case, maintaining a constant relative humidity and temperature is near impossible. I live in a non air-conditioned house where the temperatures can soar into the high 30s C. in summer. In winter, a good interior temperature can be maintained but, with radiator heating, it gets skin-cracking dry.
There are also monetary limitations. I use the best quality archival materials where possible-the above mentioned Scrapbook tape, archival photo corners, acid-free foam core and mat board, all of which are affordable options-but I also use inexpensive wood frames from IKEA and Michaels that come with ordinary glass or acrylic glazing that offer no UV protection.
More From Me:
Instagram: / dfirman
WalkClickMake blogsite: www.walkclickm...
Firmangallery portfolio and store: www.firmangall...
Негізгі бет Presenting Polaroids Part 2: Conservation Tactics
Пікірлер: 12