Connecting to Collections Care

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  • 1.  Unfixed photos

    Posted 11-06-2023 20:36
    We have a set of black and white photo proofs probably from the 1930s or 40s that have darkened to the point that some of the images are no longer discernable. Back in the day, photo proofs were commonly sent unfixed, so they would darken over time and be of no use to the customer, the idea being that you would have to buy finished prints if you wanted any. Is there any photo process that can recover the images? If not, I'm supposing the best course would be to scan those that have some image left and use photo software to play with brightness and contrast to get some kind of reasonable image.

    Vernon Weckbacher
    Archivist/Curator
    Mission Historical Museum
    956-580-8646


  • 2.  RE: Unfixed photos

    Posted 11-08-2023 16:56
    Hi Vernon-If we were to attempt to salvage such images we would photograph them first- with and without cross polarized light on a copy stand. The polarizers would help to eliminate the reflection from the silver mirroring that is quite common on those proofs. Then we could try cleaning and or fixing them to see if that would reveal any more detail before digitally capturing them again. This is all very theoretical since we haven't had to do this...the proofs we come across are usually in collections with the original negatives- so the negative is always where the best copy of that image will come from. But it sounds like you don't have the negatives in this case. I'm happy to discuss further if it's useful...just write or call.

    Best,
    Gawain

    Gawain Weaver
    Photograph Conservator
    San Francisco Bay Area
    studio 415.446.9138
    cell 415.717.0264
    http://gawainweaver.com/
    http://www.twocatdigital.com/









  • 3.  RE: Unfixed photos

    Posted 11-08-2023 16:57

    Dear Mr.Weckbacher, 

    I am not sure on which kind of treatment can suit you case better. What I can suggest is to ask to a conservator to perform some fixing or varnish application and to guide you to create the best conservation environment for these pictures. 

    If you need, I can help you finding the best professional for your case! 

    For what concern the scanning, can be a good idea, but the light used can be harmful for the picture, also the contact. So I suggest to redirect the choice to non-contact scanner, maybe laser like. But first ask a proper conservator in order to not affect more the objects.

    I am sorry to not have a best advice, but I am available to bring further the research of the conservation professional. 

    Best regards, Arianna

    Connecting to Collection Care 



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    Arianna Buffagni
    Conservator
    Freelance/Private Practice/Self-employed/Independent
    Quattro Castella
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