Avoiding situations that cause damage and potential problems is much easier than trying to correct damage once it has occurred. Major areas of concern are broken down into the following sections:


Handling the Photograph
Proper handling is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent photo damage.
Always wash your hands before touching a photograph and if possible wear clean white cotton gloves that are designed for handling art. When picking up a photograph always use both hands and make sure the back of the print is supported so it does not bend. Never touch the surface of a photograph with you finger. If you are trying to blow something off the surface, make sure you do not accidentally spit on the print. The surface of photographs can be damaged by sliding prints against each other and by placing objects on top of them.


Light
Never hang or exhibit photographs in direct sunlight. Try to avoid strong indirect daylight. It's a good idea to change prints frequently if they hang in strong light situations. Ultraviolet light is what you want to avoid. Many fluorescent tube lamps give off ultraviolet light, and filters are available and should be used. Normal household light bulbs usually do not present a problem for photography.


Heat and Humidity
Try to avoid extremes of heat and humidity. Keep photographs away from fireplaces, radiators or other heating devices. When storing photographs, keep them out of damp basements and hot attics. It is best to keep them at a constant temperature and humidity.


Earthquakes
Damage can be avoided by securely attaching frames to the wall. There are several types of security hangers available. Make sure to use good quality picture hanging hooks and that the hooks are securely attached to the walls (preferably in a wooden wall stud).


Moving Artworks
If you are involved with a major move, make sure that you artwork is protected from the elements as well as uneducated movers. Look out for weather problems, wrap your artworks in plastic to prevent water damage and to protected frames use some cushiony material like towels or blankets. Frame corner protectors are also available or you could completely wrap the artworks using cardboard and tape.


Cleaning the Plexiglass
Use a moist lint-free cloth. Wipe plexiglass dry. NEVER apply cleaning products to the plexiglass. This will damge the glass and photograph over time.