The fact that a few salvaged paper documents from the 1912 Titanic shipwreck are still living on the bottom of the ocean floor for nearly 75 years is truly remarkable. Although no photographic images were found in the wreck, this is likely because the medium was in its infancy, rather than the implausibility that images could survive. Of course, being subjected to a shipwreck is the most extreme example of water damage!
Causes of Water Damage
When you consider the number of floods and storms that hit the U.S. every year, hundreds of millions of family photos have likely been sinking. Unforeseen problems in your house like a burst pipe or a small leak in your basement can cause damage.
And on the completely mundane end of the spectrum, spilling a soft drink on a stack of photos or storing them in a damp, humid place can also cause water damage. High humidity levels can also contribute to water damage, especially in areas prone to dampness.
How Water Damages Prints and Negatives
Although some photographic materials, including wet photos, can survive in water immersion for two days or more, others quickly deteriorate. Images can separate from mounts, the emulsion can dissolve or stick together, ink can bleed, and staining can occur.
Another serious problem is that mold can grow within 48 hours at 60% relative humidity and 70° F. This can cause permanent damage including staining, weakening or loss of emulsion, as well as pose a health risk.
You might think negatives or transparencies can’t be damaged by water since they aren’t paper and developed in a water/chemical bath once upon a time. But water causes the film to swell and the emulsion to soften, making it vulnerable to damage from dirt that can get embedded in the film. And even negatives stored in plastic or acetate can get damaged.
Effects of Water Damage on Photos
Water damage can have devastating effects on photos, causing irreversible damage if not addressed promptly. When photos come into contact with water, the emulsion can break down, leading to discoloration, fading, and even complete destruction of the image. Additionally, water can seep into the paper or material, causing it to become brittle, warped, or discolored.
If not properly dried, water-damaged photos can also develop mold or mildew, further compromising their integrity. The longer the exposure to water, the more severe the damage, making it crucial to act quickly to save your cherished memories.
Is Repair Possible?
The first step in rescuing water-damaged photos and negatives is to remove them from water immediately or as soon as it’s safe to do so. It is crucial to lay the photos on a flat surface during the drying process to avoid damage. If you can’t dry them right away, photos can be put in a frost-free freezer for up to several months to prevent mold. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Nitrile or latex gloves and N95 respirators (if flood-damaged)
- Paper towels, wax paper, unprinted newsprint, clean dishcloths, or any other absorbent material to aid in the drying process
- Twine, tacks, small plastic clothespins, and a clothesline
- A clean, dry space
Assessing the Damage
Assessing the damage to water-damaged photos is a crucial step in determining the best course of action for restoration. It’s essential to evaluate the extent of the damage, taking into account factors such as the type of paper or material, the severity of the water damage, and the presence of any mold or mildew.
A thorough assessment will help determine whether restoring the photos at home or with the help of professional restoration services. By carefully examining each photo, you can make an informed decision on the best approach to restore your precious memories.
Evaluating the Extent of Damage
When evaluating the extent of damage to water-damaged photos, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
- The type of paper or material: Different types of paper or material may respond differently to water damage. For example, glossy photos may be more prone to water spots, while matte photos may be more susceptible to discoloration.
- The severity of the water damage: The amount of water that has come into contact with the photo will impact the extent of the damage. Submerged photos for an extended period may be more hard to restore than those that have only been to a small amount of water.
- The presence of mold or mildew: If mold or mildew is present, it’s essential to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage. Mold can cause permanent staining and pose health risks, so it’s crucial to handle affected photos with care.
Removing Photos from Water and Enclosures
Removing photos from water and enclosures requires great care to avoid causing further damage. If your photos are stuck together or to their enclosures, it’s essential to separate them carefully to prevent tearing or ripping. Here are some steps to follow:
- Gently Separate Photos: Start by gently separating the photos from each other, working from one corner to the other. If they are stuck together, you can try soaking them in cold water for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive.
- Loosen Adhesive from Enclosures: If the photos are stuck to their enclosures, such as frames or albums, try soaking them in cold water for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive. Then, carefully pry the photo away from the enclosure, working from one corner to the other.
- Remove Debris: Use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab to gently remove any debris or dirt from the surface of the photo.
- Blot Excess Moisture: If the photo is still wet, use a clean, dry cloth to gently blot it and remove excess moisture.
By following these steps, you can safely remove your water-damaged photos from water and enclosures without causing further harm.
Tips for the Drying Process of Photos
The process of salvaging water-damaged photos takes time and patience. Restoration isn’t possible until the photos are dry and dusting of the molds.
- Don’t force photos apart when they’re stuck together because this will cause irreparable damage.
- If the photos are visibly dirty and the emulsion is intact, rinse them in a tray of clean water prior to drying. The same process applies to slides as well.
- Be careful not to wipe or touch the wet photo surface and only hold it by the edges.
- Lay photos face up on plain paper towels, replacing the towels every two hours until photos are dry.
- Use a fan to increase air movement in the room and prevent mold, but never point it directly at the photos.
- Reserve the clothesline method for sturdy photos and slides.
- After photos are dry, gently remove mold with a soot sponge cut into squares using a slow circular motion – wear gloves, a mask, and long sleeves before attempting this.
Cleaning Water Damaged Photos
Cleaning water damaged photos requires great care to avoid causing further damage. Here are some steps to follow:
- Rinse with Cold Water: Start by gently rinsing the photo with cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the photo to curl or become misshapen.
- Gently Remove Dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab to gently remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the photo.
- Use a Cleaning Solution: If the photo has a sticky or tacky substance on its surface, you can try using a cleaning solution specifically for photos. However, be sure to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the photo.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the photo’s surface or cause it to become discoloration.
- Blot Excess Moisture: Once the photo is clean, use a clean, dry cloth to gently blot it and remove excess moisture.
By carefully cleaning your water damaged photos, you can help restore their appearance and prevent further deterioration.
Digital Restoration of Water-Damaged Images
For some people, the idea of salvaging water-damaged photos is too overwhelming and they turn them over to a professional conservationist. This is quite costly but certainly for photographs or art worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. For family photos that have sentimental value, it’s possible to scan the photos and repair them digitally.
Digital restoration can be a necessary option to save irreplaceable family memories, especially when you need to restore water damaged photos. This requires a high-quality scanner, editing software (e.g. Photoshop), a lot of time, and considerable retouching skills.
A professional scanning service has the equipment and trained photo restoration technicians to bring your damaged photos back to life. And after your digitizing your photos, you’ll never have to worry again about damage – as long as you regularly back up the drive you store them on!
In the digital restoration process, tools like the clone tool and spot healing brush tools are essential. The clone tool can fix small areas of damage, while the spot healing brush tools are effective for cleaning up minor imperfections and cracks. Using these tools in combination ensures a comprehensive restoration.
Recoloring images to correct colour, run colours is another important step in the restoration process. Using a photo example can help illustrate the steps involved in cleaning, repairing damages, and recoloring the image.
Finally, it is crucial to properly store restored photos to prevent future damage and maintain their condition over time.
Separating Stuck Photos
If photos have become stuck together due to water damage, it’s essential to separate them carefully to avoid causing further damage. Here are some steps to follow:
- Start by gently separating the photos, working from one corner to the other. Be patient and avoid pulling too hard, as this can tear the photos.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab to gently pry the photos apart. This can help loosen any adhesive without damaging the photo surface.
- If the photos are still stuck, try using a small amount of cold water to help loosen the adhesive. Dip a cotton swab in cold water and apply it sparingly to the edges of the stuck photos.
- Separate the photos then lay them flat on a clean, dry surface to dry. Ensure they are in face up position and not touching each other to prevent re-sticking.
Professional Photo Restoration
While some restoration of water-damaged photos can be at home, others may require professional restoration services. Professional photo restoration involves using techniques and equipment to restore damaged photos to their original condition.
Experts in photo restoration have the skills and tools needed to handle even the most severely damaged photos, ensuring the best possible outcome. Professional photo restorers have access to specialized equipment, such as digital scanners and photo editing software, that can help restore damaged photos.
Benefits of Expert Restoration
There are several benefits to using professional photo restoration services, including:
- Expertise: Professional photo restorers have the training and experience to handle even the most severely damaged photos. They understand the complexities of different types of damage and know the best techniques to restore each photo.
- Equipment: Professional photo restorers have access to specialized equipment, such as digital scanners and photo editing software, that can help restore damaged photos. These tools allow for precise and detailed restoration work.
- Attention to detail: Professional photo restorers will carefully evaluate each photo to determine the best course of action for restoration. They take the time to address each issue, from color correction to repairing tears and spots.
- Time-saving: Professional photo restoration can save you time and effort, as you won’t need to spend hours trying to restore the photos yourself. This allows you to focus on other important tasks while experts handle the restoration process.
By using professional photo restoration services, you can ensure that your water-damaged photos are in their original condition, preserving your cherished memories for years to come.
Preserving Restored Photos
Once your water damaged photos are okay, it’s essential to take steps to preserve them and prevent further damage. Here are some tips to follow:
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your restored photos in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Use Acid-Free Materials: Use acid-free materials, such as paper and cardboard, to store and display your photos.
- Handle with Care: Avoid touching the surface of the photo, as the oils from your skin can cause damage over time. If you must handle the photo, wear gloves to prevent oils from transferring to the surface.
- Use Protective Albums or Frames: Consider using a photo album or frame that is specifically designed to preserve and protect photos.
- Make Digital Copies: Make digital copies of your restored photos and store them in a safe place, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage service.
At ScanCafe, we recommend taking these precautions seriously to ensure that your efforts in restoring water damaged photographs have long-lasting results. For those looking to restore photographs, consider our services that repair and preserve your precious memories. Contact us today to learn more about our preservation solutions and how we can help keep your cherished memories safe for generations.