Yes, photographs that are stuck in an album may still be digitised, but **do not force them off the page**. Rewind Digital’s standard photo-scanning service is for loose prints; albums, mounted photographs and fragile items need to be checked separately before any appointment is confirmed.
Why should I leave stuck photographs in place?
Old adhesive can become hard, brittle or uneven. Pulling a print away from the page may crease it, tear the paper support or damage the image layer.
The US National Archives advises against separating a photograph that is adhered to an album page because removal may damage the emulsion or tear the print. The Library of Congress similarly recommends consulting a photograph conservator when a photograph cannot be released without damage, or when the album itself is worth preserving.
Do not use water, steam, solvents, heat or household adhesive removers. Different photographic processes react differently, so a method that appears safe for one print may permanently damage another.
Can the album page be digitised instead?
Sometimes the safest option is to digitise the photograph while it remains attached. This may mean capturing the whole page rather than only the print, which can also preserve captions, dates, decorations and the original arrangement.
Whether that is practical depends on:
- the album’s size and thickness;
- whether pages can open safely and reasonably flat;
- reflections from plastic covers;
- curved pages near the binding;
- photographs on both sides of a page; and
- the condition and importance of the album.
Do not press a tightly bound album flat or cut pages simply to fit a scanner. A bound or delicate album may need different equipment or a conservation specialist.
What should I send with my enquiry?
Before booking, take a few clear photographs showing:
1. the closed album and its approximate size; 2. one complete page; 3. a close-up of the adhesive or mounting method; 4. any plastic film covering the photographs; and 5. visible tears, mould, staining or brittle pages.
Also say how many pages contain photographs and whether you want the full page arrangement preserved. This allows the format and condition to be discussed without unnecessary handling.
Can Rewind Digital scan my album?
Photo scanning is currently offered for loose printed photographs. Albums, stuck photographs, negatives, slides, oversized prints, fragile items and restoration are **not standard confirmed services** and must be discussed first. Do not remove photographs simply to make them eligible.
Check the current pricing for loose prints, then request an estimate with photographs and a short description of the album. Rewind Digital is based in Tadcaster, with drop-off and collection by appointment. Allow up to one week from an agreed drop-off; the completion date is confirmed with the quote.
