AboutPeter C. Amsden Expertise Questions related to the archiving and preservation of images. From photographic to electronic.
Experience I do have a reasonable knowledge of genealogy, being a member of the Society of Genealogist and of the Guild of One Name Studies. However, my real expertise lies in the area of archival preservation and the salvage of damaged photographs. I have made an in depth study of the subject. and my knowledge may be of particular value to those concerned with their personal archives. My knowledge extends from the photograph to film, video and computer imaging.
Organizations Associate of the Royal Photographic Society
Associate of the British Institute of Professional Photographers.
Publications Author of "Images for the Future" A guide to the selection & preservation of photographic & electronic images for personal archives. ISBN 0953501922
Education/Credentials Degree in Photo Science. Many years experience in the photographic, film and TV industries.
Question My family has an old photograph taken in 1859 of John Brown's hanging. I do
not know if it is a daguerreotype, tintype,etc. I recall (and it's been years since i
saw it and held it) that it was on thick glass. Would it be damaged if placed on a
flatbed scanner? Many thanks for a quick reply.
Answer Hello Joseph,
It could be Daguerreotypepe, but if so then the subject is unusual. They needed a fairly lengthy exposure, but if poor John Brown was left hanging there I guess it was quite possible.
Is it possible to send me a photograph of it?
Might also be an Ambrotype, but you can tell the difference because an Ambrotype can be seen from any direction and a Dagurreotype had to be adjusted to get the right reflection.
Both are fairly valuable and easily damaged. However to answer you question. Placing the picture on a scanner should do no harm so long as you do not do it over and over again. In fact Dagurreotypes come out quite well when scanned. Scan as a colour photo. That way ypu get better resolution - you can always change it back to black and white in whatever software you are using.
Whatever you do, do not take the picture apart , that will be a sure fire way to destroy it.
If you would like to send me a photograph my email is:
