Be sure to label the back of the photo gently with a permanent marker. Include the names and ages of those in the photo along with where the photograph was taken. This will help those who inherit your photographs identify them. Do not use a ballpoint pen to write on the back of photographs. The pressure of the pen may damage the photo and the ink will likely fade over time.

Avoid touching the image side of your photograph with your bare fingers.  Body oil can attract dirt which can lead to the growth of damaging mold spores.  You should wear light, cotton gloves when working with the photos, to minimize skin contact.

Never store photos in “magnetic” photo albums. The cardboard used for the pages in these albums is acidic which cases the photo paper to break down. The adhesive the holds the photo on the page is acidic also, which when the paper breaks down, cause the photo to not be able to be removed from the back without damage. The photo will be ruined, and all information that you may have on the back of the photo is lost also. The plastic that covers the photo when in the book contains polyvinyl chloride which releases gases causing photographs to fade, wrinkle and stick to the plastic. Items such as glue, tape, staples, rubber bands and paper clips can cause stains, scratches and dents to photos as well, and should always be avoided. Wood and wood products, like cardboard and paper, harm photographs and should only be used if labeled "acid-free." Invest in archival photo boxes and acid free papers to store photos in. Other safe ways to store photos include plastic sleeves void of PVC purchased at photo supply stores. Plastic sandwich bags are also a good, inexpensive resource. Maxwell suggest storing large numbers of photos layered between sheets of 100 percent cotton bond acid-free paper in metal or acid-free cardboard boxes.

Temperature, humidity and light are the three greatest enemies of photographic materials. A good rule of thumb is storing photos where you are also comfortable. In other words, not too hot, cold, wet or dry, according to Maxwell. This means keeping them out of attics, garages and basements where they'll be subject to extreme temperature fluctuations and excessive humidity. Since damage to photos can only be reversed through expensive conservation methods, avoiding harmful handling and storage really pays off. Be kind to your photos and they'll last a lifetime, or two.

Even framing should be done with care. Using acid-free mats to prevent photos from touching the glass and acid-free backboards to deter deterioration of the image help protect and preserve.

If you are framing a precious photograph, consider having it duplicated before placing it under glass just in case it fades over time while on display.