The instant film industry hasn’t exactly earned a stellar reputation for durability. However, you may use strategies to keep your film in good shape while still showing it off. The best way to maintain the instant film’s quality is to store it in an environment free of direct sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity. However, you can also protect your instant film by placing it in custom wall frames that can be displayed wherever you want. 

How do you stop your film from fading?

Instant films have a shelf life of over a century if stored correctly. The brighter parts of instant films tend to yellow as time passes. You can potentially save them from this fate by being cautious. 

Display them away from direct sunlight 

We often forget that displaying images in bright sunshine might ruin them. As a result, they should be kept someplace dark, away from the kind of light that might harm human skin. You can stop photos from becoming yellow by displaying them away from direct sunlight. 

Do not attempt to cut out the photo

Resist the urge to cut the picture because you want it to fit inside a specific frame. Cutting instant film can hasten its decay. Additionally, Polaroid’s internal chemicals are hazardous and may cause damage if you come in contact with them. 

Dry them out before storage

You’ll want to give your photographs a few weeks to dry before deciding where to display them. Timeframes of up to 30 days are suggested. This will stop the chemical reactions, so you won’t harm the photo if you touch it. 

Be mindful of how you handle the instant film. It would be best to hold the photos on the corner because the oil on your hands could damage the image, so try to avoid touching it unless you have to.

Find a proper storage space

Keeping them in a box in the attic isn’t the best action plan, especially if you’re worried about the effects of heat or humidity. Extreme temperatures and high humidity are bad news for instant film. 

A main-floor closet is probably the best bet for stowing things away. Places that are still dark but maintain a steady temperature are perfect. Place them flat, if you put them in a slanted position they may turn yellow more quickly than if they were lying flat.

How to safely display your instant film

Direct sunlight poses the greatest threat to instant film, therefore challenging your display options. Especially considering that the living room is typically the brightest room in the house. Even if you take precautions to prevent the images from being damaged, displaying them still may cause them to fade more quickly. However, there is a solution to this problem. 

Using frames that offer UV protection

This is your best bet if you want to show an instant film to the public. In addition to allowing the photograph to be displayed in a public setting, this solution will also protect it from the harmful effects of direct sunlight.

Your local framer will offer multiple wall photo framing options, including custom frames that have UV protection glass. These unique frames are the best choice if you want to display your instant film in your living room or bedroom. 

Conclusion

Despite their convenience, instant films are notoriously delicate and difficult to keep in good condition. You should think twice before showing them too often. Safe methods of displaying an instant film exist, although you must still exercise care. Custom frames with UV protection glass are the preferred choice if you want to display your instant film in a well lit place like your living room.