A Discussion of Archival Prints...

Professionally processed black-and-white photographic prints can last without appreciable fading for over a hundred years when stored in acid-free, gas-tight enclosures in the dark. However, prints stored more conventionally--in a photo album or a picture frame--have a much shorter lifetime. Color photographic prints maintain their original colors for even shorter times (typically only 15 to 20 years, when stored in the dark, in a chemical-free environment).

The prints supplied by River City Image Works, produced using a combination of the latest technology in pigment inks and archival papers, last much longer. They deliver lightfastness ratings of 75 to 100 years (dependant upon specific paper). These expected lifetimes are for prints displayed in frames, under glass--not in direct sunlight.

The principal reason for the stability of our prints is the fact that they are colored by pigment-based inks instead of the dye-based inks utilized for both standard photographic and most computer printing systems. Dyes are inherently unstable and fade when exposed to heat, light, humidity, and air-borne contaminants. Pigments, on the other hand, are much more stable and more resistant to these environmental agents.

Storing your prints in photo albums (in sleeves) protects them from both airborne contaminants and light and assures them the longest life. We recommend using acid-free, archival sleeves that are commonly available from camera shops and other retailers.

If you are displaying your prints in picture frames, mount them under glass to minimize exposure to ultraviolet light, humidity, cigarette smoke, and other atmospheric contaminants. The use of "UV-blocking", "UV-filtering" or "UV-protective" glass is recommended. Be sure to mat the prints, to prevent sticking to the glass if the frame gets wet. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near sources of bright light. Your displayed prints will last longer when protected from the environment, but will not last as long as prints stored in proper photo albums.

If you are unable to limit your prints' exposure to airborne contaminants and light (for example, if you use them as postcards or display them on a refrigerator), they may discolor. The degree of discoloration depends on the environment and how much light and contamination to which they're exposed.

If you are framing your photo, avoid doing so when humidity is high, as condensation may form behind the glass. If the humidity is too high, store your print in a photo album or plastic sleeve until the humidity drops.