Since the daguerreotype process was introduced in 1839, many methods have been developed for making photographs. Some surprising materials were used, such as egg whites for albumen prints. Cotton fibers were dissolved in chemicals to make collodion, which was coated onto metal and glass to make tintypes and ambrotypes. Photographs can fade or deteriorate over time, depending on where and how they are stored.
This Hagley History Hangout presentation from Library Conservator Laura Wahl covers a little bit of history on the most common photographic processes and how they age. Tips on how to house your best shots and prevent damage are also presented here. From chromogenic color photographs to color slides, it’s never too late to improve the state of your family photograph collections!
Click here to watch more from the Hagley History Hangout series