0
\$\begingroup\$

I never used to print the photos that I take. I used to upload all my public work to Flickr and all my personal work to Google Photos. Albums for me were always software albums created on Flickr/Google photos.

Last month, I printed an album (around 100 photos), and kept it in a physical album. Interestingly, we started looking at the images more frequently than we used to when they were only online. I also liked the standard size in which photos are seen. Otherwise, each device has a different screen size and we used to see the online albums differently on each device.

This leads me to the question, what kind of print is likely to last a long time without any damage?

\$\endgroup\$
0

3 Answers 3

5
\$\begingroup\$

...what kind of print do you do so that it can be kept for longer time without any damage?

I generally don't worry too much about archival quality or longevity of my prints; I'm cheap and use a dye-based inkjet printer, rather than a pigment-based one. But since I do the prints on my own printer on photo paper that I can easily purchase, I figure I can always just print out a replacement if the one I hang on my wall fades or gets damaged. My digital file is my original (just like my negatives are).

Pigment-based inks, however, are supposed to have better longevity, and of course, getting good archival-quality paper that is low in acid content helps towards making an archival-quality print. You also want low-acid ink, frames, adhesives [hinging tape/tissue], and mat and mounting boards if you use them. But most importantly, how you hang/display/store the prints will go a long way towards extending the print life. I've heard of folks using UV-filtering glass on frames if they're really paranoid about prints fading, but it's probably most important to simply make sure they're not hung/displayed in direct sunlight.

As with any paper conservancy, storing prints away from light in a cool, dry place in archival storage containers of some kind (acid-free cardboard, mylar sleeves, etc.) will keep nearly anything from fading for a very long time.

\$\endgroup\$
0
\$\begingroup\$

I do not print ALL my photos (there are simply too many) but I do try to make a selection approximately once a year, and print those. Sometimes as loose photos, though recently I started printing them as complete albums which is great! I see the following advantages

  • The display of colors, the sharpness, etc. does not depend on the screen you are using to view the photo. Furthermore, sometimes well-printed photo looks better on paper than on a screen.
  • It forces me to select my favourite photos (as the number of photos I want to print is limited). This is nice for going over them again myself (you only see your favourite photos) and for showing others, without boring them.

I imagine the last point can also be achieved by creating an online photo album, but I have no experience with this myself.

\$\endgroup\$
0
\$\begingroup\$

Yes i do. I do not print them myself, I prefer to have a photo book printed. It is much nicer then the old school photo album. If you are printing, then archival quality ink and paper ( and album ) would add to the life of your photo album.

I have only my best work printed unless it really has an emotional quality i want to re-live and enjoy. I also print to hang on the wall, but i have limited wall space.

\$\endgroup\$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.