What’s the best way to store large photo prints at home, including sizes up to 60×90 cm?
Asked 10/14/2023
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I have loose photo prints ranging from 30×40 cm up to 60×90 cm, including both lab-made chemical prints and some fine art inkjet prints. They usually arrive rolled in tubes, which works for a few prints but becomes impractical and takes a lot of space as the number grows.
I’d like a storage method that protects the prints at home and makes them easy to browse and retrieve. Ideally it would keep them flat, use space efficiently, and offer some protection from insects such as silverfish. Should I separate prints with archival interleaving material? If I build or buy storage, what approach is best for large prints?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
2y ago
2 Answers
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Flat file cabinets are the standard method for archival storage of loose paper.
A flat file cabinet can store all sizes up to the maximum dimensions of the drawers.
They are not inexpensive and take up significant floor space…though stacked flat files can be topped with a work surface for examining their contents.
However not all work justifies the expense of best practices.
Originally by user95237. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user95237
2y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For loose prints this large, the standard archival approach is flat storage, not rolled or vertical storage. Flat file cabinets are the usual best-practice solution, and archival flat boxes are the lower-cost alternative.
For 60×90 cm prints, storing them flat is the safest way to prevent curling, pressure damage, and edge collapse. Keep the storage cool, dry, and dark. Vertical storage for loose large prints is generally not ideal unless each print is well supported.
For smaller prints, archival presentation/storage books with polypropylene sleeves can work well if stored upright with support so they don’t slump.
If you stack loose prints in a box or drawer, using archival interleaving sheets is a sensible precaution, especially if print surfaces might rub.
Airtight storage is harder to combine with practical access. Rather than chasing a fully sealed vertical solution, prioritize archival flat storage and a clean, dry environment; that will do more for long-term preservation. If insects are a concern, avoid food/paper clutter nearby and use well-closed archival boxes or drawers.
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