Gather the necessary supplies: Prepare a kit with archival-quality materials including white cotton gloves, acid-free archival photo sleeves or envelopes, acid-free tissue paper, and a soft brush or compressed air canister for cleaning.

Clean your hands and work area: Before handling the photos, wash and dry your hands thoroughly to ensure they are free from oils, lotions, or any other substances that could potentially harm the photographs. Use a clean and clutter-free workspace.

Inspect and assess the condition: Carefully examine each photo for any signs of damage, such as tears, creases, fading, or discoloration. Make a note of the condition of each photo before proceeding.

Sort and organize the photos: Categorize the photos based on their size, format, and condition. This will make it easier to store and retrieve them later. You can use acid-free paper or archival-safe folders to group the photos.

Make copies or scans: Consider creating digital copies or scans of your old photos. This provides a backup and allows for easy sharing and restoration if necessary. Use a flatbed scanner or consult a professional photo scanning service for delicate or oversized photos.

Repair damaged photos (if possible): For minor damages, such as small tears or scratches, you can attempt to repair the photos using archival-quality tape or glue specifically designed for photo restoration. However, it is recommended to consult a professional conservator for major repairs or valuable photographs.

Remove harmful materials: Remove any rubber bands, paperclips, or adhesive materials that might cause damage over time. Replace these with archival-safe options, such as acid-free paper clips or photo corners.

Store in archival-quality enclosures: Place each individual photo in an acid-free archival-quality photo sleeve or envelope. Ensure that the sleeves are large enough to accommodate the photo without forcing it. Avoid using PVC-based materials, as they can degrade and damage the photos.

Provide proper environmental conditions: Choose a storage area that is cool, dry, and free from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures, high humidity, and exposure to light can accelerate the deterioration of photographs. Aim for a stable environment with moderate temperature and humidity levels.

Label and document: Label each photo with relevant information such as dates, names, locations, and any other significant details. This will help preserve the context and history of the photos. Additionally, consider creating an inventory or catalog of the stored photos for easy reference.