Digital
image preservation
I was so proud of myself when
I finished scanning and retouching all my old family photos. I knew I would
have to periodically update my photo collection, but never dreamed that may not
be enough.
Digital images—preservation dilemma
Digital copies of photographs (those made with the aid of
a computer) are not as durable as printed ones. The life expectancy of DVDs
and CDs is about 5 years. An external hard drive might be a more stable
solution. But, programs and technology keep changing. A photo created in your
current photo editing program may not be readable in the same program 2 versions from now.
Keeping up with the changes requires constant monitoring
and updating. Don’t count on mass migrating (converting and moving) your files for
an update either. You may have to open each image file and convert to the new
format. Hopefully, “raw” image file standards or emulation software will emerge
soon to make migration easier.
In the meantime, it’s still a good idea to make digital copies of all of your photos and
paper documents. Store the digital images on high quality, photo-grade (not
rewritable) DVDs or CDs. Back them up with duplicate DVD/CD copies or on an
external hard drive. Store organized DVD/CD copies and contact sheets with your other family photos.
Take the added precaution to keep them away from anything magnetic (includes
televisions and fluorescent lighting) Distribute additional copies to family
members outside your home for safe keeping as well. When you update your software
or equipment, update all your archived digital documents as well.
Solution: Properly preserved analog photographs (those you can hold in your hand) will
last for 70+ years and be viewable without the aid of an electronic device that
is destined to soon be outdated. A printing service can make high-quality prints of your most valuable digital images, using archival paper and ink (PAT
standards). You can also buy archival ink and paper to use in your
home inkjet printer (made by Epson). Inkjet is more durable and less susceptible to
humidity than laser printing. For highest quality, use paper made by the
manufacturer of your printer. Store them as you would any other analog photo.
Sources:
“Caring
for your Photographs” American Institute for Conservation of Historic and
Artistic Works (AIC), provided by Stanford University
International
Research on Permanent Authentic Records in Electronic Systems (InterPARES) recommendations, UCB, Canada
National Historic
Preservation Program, U.S.
“Digital Preservation of Moving Image Material?” Howard Besser,
UCLA School of Education & Information Studies
Open
Archival Information System (OAIS), Washington D.C
More preservation
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Copyright September 2009 Family History Coach. All rights reserved Last update April 27, 2010
