September 13, 2005 > Preserve your pictures

We all take countless number of pictures, but most of us do not know how they can be best preserved. Interested people can learn how to do so in the workshop, "Preservation of Photographic Materials" presented by Robert Mackimmie and sponsored by Fremont Main Library, Fremont Cultural Arts Council (FCAC) and Fremont Museum of Local History. FCAC started an annual lecture series last year, in order to promote more interest in the skills and appreciation of photographic art.

Robert Mackimmie blends the history of photography and theory of photo-conservation with practical hands-on skills. He will teach the basic conservation techniques, how to buy the proper storage materials and organize professional photo archive or family photo collection. Mackimmie will discuss in detail the reasons for deterioration of photographs and introduce the ways in which photographic materials such as prints, slides and digital work can be stored and conserved. He will speak about the processes to maintain the veracity and archival lifespan of the traditional photographic medium and the printing concerns of digital and fine art photographers.

Robert Mackimmie, who has a very impressive background in the field, currently focuses on asset management for Sandbox Studio, a progressive digital photo studio in San Francisco. He still uses an 8X10 view camera for his personal work and thinks of photographs as both magical and compelling!

Photographers and the general public are invited to learn and develop their knowledge, skills and experience in photographic conservation. The workshop to be held on Saturday, September 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Fukaya Room, Fremont Main Library, 2400 Stevenson Blvd. in Fremont. Call (510) 745-1414 for more details.