Make & keep
What the Photographic Activity Test means for storage
A useful question to ask beyond the word acid-free.
A sleeve’s appearance tells you little about how its materials interact with a photograph over time. When choosing an enclosure, ask for a specific photographic-storage claim rather than relying only on attractive packaging.
A test with a defined purpose
NEDCC explains that the Photographic Activity Test assesses enclosure materials for reactions such as image fading and staining. It is relevant to materials used to house photographs; the word acid-free alone does not describe every interaction.
Evidence: Preservation guidance
Compare actual product information
Our comparison sheet has spaces for material, dimensions, manufacturer, test statement and intended use. Record what the supplier actually says, including whether a statement applies to the whole enclosure or only one component. Do not translate a vague archival label into a tested guarantee.
Fit still matters
A suitable material can still be the wrong size. Measure the strip with room for safe handling, keep it from slipping into a tight fold and avoid overfilling the container. For unfamiliar historic processes, seek specialist advice about the enclosure instead of treating one product as correct for every photograph.
Evidence: Preservation guidance
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- NEDCC — storing photograph collectionsPreservation guidance
- US National Archives — storing family archivesPreservation guidance