Restoring and Framing Photos

Turn to technology if you want to bring damaged or old photographs or tintypes back to life. Ask for estimates -- restoration, not just copying, can be expensive.

Restorers use digital scanning, a computer, and darkroom processes to rebuild images damaged by cracks, water, or missing portions. Most offer hand-tinting.

Here are some of the options that professional restoration can offer: - Reusable negatives - Choice of print paper - Choice of finish -- sepia-tone, tinted, enhanced color, black and white - Enlargement or reduction to any size photo paper - Unlimited number of archival copies

Framing: Mat favorite photos for framing with lignin (wood pulp)-free, 6- to 8-ply mounting board. Attach with archival-quality adhesives. The frame should be deep enough so that the image does not touch the glazing that filters ultraviolet light; otherwise, processing chemicals can cause the photo to adhere to the glazing. Use a moisture barrier behind the mat if the frame will hang on an outside wall.

Avoid environmental extremes such as exposure to intense light (direct sun) or ultraviolet light (mercury-vapor lamps) or exposure to high humidity (bathrooms and kitchens).