Photogenealogy is the art and science of caring for, identifying, enjoying, using, and sharing family history photographs, and then creating a treasured legacy with them. An important part of this rewarding process is scanning printed photos. This can be a lengthy task, but prescanning preparation will make the process more efficient. This preparation includes putting together a photogenealogy tool kit, triaging the prints, and removing prints from their enclosures if appropriate. Slides and negatives require different preparation, not covered in the scope of this article.
Tool Kit
A photogenealogist’s tool kit includes gloves, face mask, anti-static brush, bulb blower, micro spatula and dental floss. These tools are available from preservation equipment suppliers (see Links, page 57) or well-known online retailers. Basic DIY tools may also be useful, along with a…