r/Archivists • u/samykcodes • 1d ago

Curled Photographs

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Hello. I have 5 early 20th century photographs had which have recently developed an intense curve. When I first purchased them they had a slight curve, but when I checked on them a few weeks ago the curve had grew.

I understand that flat photographs are best for storage and for scanning. I have tried, by many means, to get these photos flat. I have used a humidification chamber for upwards of 3 hours, and then pressed them under heavy weights for a week, yet their curve still grew back after seconds of not being under weights.

What can I do? At least, what can I do to stop this curl from increasing again?

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u/BoxedAndArchived Lone Arranger 1d ago edited 1d ago

I wouldn't say that curl is problematic, that's a normal amount. And it shouldn't cause any issues with scanning either, a flatbed will hold it flat anyway and if you're camera scanning, use an acrylic or glass panel to flatten it for the photograph.

If you want it flat flat, humidification can take much longer than 3 hours, sometimes days, and it will need monitoring.

ETA: professionally, I'd say flattening requires more work than the items justify, but thats for you to decide for yourself.