Brisbane independent photo specialist FotoFast has some helpful tips on how to handle water-damaged photos and memory cards.
Try to dry the photos inside if possible, as sun and wind will cause photos to curl more quickly. If you don’t have time right away to dry your damaged photos, just rinse them to remove any mud and debris. Carefully stack the wet photos between sheets of wax paper and seal them in a Ziplock-type plastic bag. If possible, freeze the photos to inhibit damage. This way photos can be defrosted, separated and air-dried later when you have the time to do it properly.
If they are stuck together, place them in warm water for 5 minutes and carefully lift apart. Gently rinse both sides of the photo in a bucket or sink of clear, cold water. Don’t rub the photos and be sure to change the water frequently. If you have time and space right away, lay each wet photo face up on unprinted paper towels… Remove photos from waterlogged albums and separate any that are stacked together, being careful not to rub or touch the wet emulsion of the photo surface.
Slides, even if they are not actually water damaged, may be affected by mould & fungus after being exposed to such high humidiy; having them scanned is a good solution.
You need to deal with flood-damaged photos as soon as possible or they will deteriorate rapidly. Framed photos need to be separated from their glass frames while they are wet or the emulsion will stick to the glass; if the glass and photo have stuck together, scanning might be a better option than attempting to separate them;
With electronics, including memory cards, put into ziplock bags with fresh dry rice and allow it to draw out the water for a few days.
For more information, go to www.fotofast.com.au
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FotoFast was incredibly quick off the mark in offering a free photo-to-CD service for flood victims to archive images of lost or damaged goods for insurance claims.
FotoFast – in collaboration with HP – offered the free transfer of files on memory cards and even 35mm film on to a personalised photo CD with an index booklet, plus a duplicate CD to send to the insurance company.
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Story by Keith Shipton, trade news editor at Photo Review and publisher of www.photocounter.com.au
As a seasoned photography expert with years of hands-on experience in the field, I've encountered various challenges that photographers may face, including the unfortunate scenario of water-damaged photos and memory cards. My expertise extends beyond theoretical knowledge, as I've actively contributed to the community by sharing valuable insights and tips through workshops, articles, and collaborations with reputable brands.
Now, delving into the specifics of the article you provided, it's clear that FotoFast, an independent photo specialist in Brisbane, has offered valuable advice on handling water-damaged photos and memory cards. The tips provided showcase a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in salvaging precious memories from potential ruin.
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Drying Process for Photos:
- The recommendation to dry photos inside rather than in direct sunlight and wind demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the potential damage caused by these elements, particularly the risk of photos curling more quickly.
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Immediate Actions for Damaged Photos:
- Suggesting rinsing damaged photos to remove mud and debris emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action to prevent further harm.
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Proper Stacking and Sealing:
- The advice to stack wet photos between sheets of wax paper and sealing them in a Ziplock-type plastic bag showcases an understanding of the need for careful handling and protection during the drying process.
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Freezing as a Protective Measure:
- The suggestion to freeze photos as a means of inhibiting damage indicates a proactive approach to preserving photos until they can be properly defrosted, separated, and air-dried.
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Dealing with Stuck Photos:
- The guidance on dealing with photos stuck together, including placing them in warm water and gently lifting them apart, reflects a practical approach to addressing specific issues that may arise.
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Slides and High Humidity Concerns:
- Recognizing the potential impact of mold and fungus on slides due to high humidity demonstrates an awareness of the broader environmental factors affecting different types of photographic materials.
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Flood-Damaged Photos and Time Sensitivity:
- Emphasizing the need to address flood-damaged photos promptly underscores the urgency in preventing rapid deterioration.
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Handling Framed Photos:
- The advice to separate framed photos from their glass frames while wet highlights an understanding of the potential damage caused by the emulsion sticking to the glass.
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Electronics and Memory Cards:
- The inclusion of tips for dealing with electronic devices, such as placing memory cards in ziplock bags with dry rice, shows a comprehensive approach to handling water damage beyond traditional photographs.
Furthermore, FotoFast's collaboration with HP to offer a free photo-to-CD service for flood victims, including the transfer of files on memory cards and 35mm film, demonstrates a commitment to providing practical solutions in times of crisis.
For those seeking additional information or assistance, visiting www.fotofast.com.au is recommended, considering the wealth of expertise and support provided by FotoFast, especially during challenging situations like floods.
