Conservation involves the care of the physical objects themselves. For example, protective housings stabilize fragile photos, allow safe handling and facilitate treatment of damaged structural parts such as the image materials, binder and support. A preservation program, such as the one at the National Archives, encompasses conservation treatment, the duplication of deteriorating films and the broader care of the entire collection through maintenance of a proper environment, good storage facilities, disaster preparedness, research room guidelines and staff training. The latter is increasingly important as the digital revolution continues. Scanning or digitally photographing objects can cause damage if precautions aren't taken.
Damage takes many forms.
Photos get bent and torn. They get stuck together. Someone put tape on it or it got wet in some disaster. It can be a strain on your eyes and on your back. Currently on a year's sabbatical while she serves as a Kress Conservation Fellow at the National Gallery of Art, Wagner also is involved in developing standards for photo storage, environmental conditions and test methods.