Nicoletta Campochiaro

The photographic image has considerable importance in our society. It is ever more important to preserve original photographs, at a time of technological advances facilitating the production of digital images without material support. The conservation and restoration of photographs is a discipline which combines the study and treatment of photographic and photomecanical processes. It is based on a thorough knowledge of materials and on the causes and prevention of their damage. The conservator uses this knowledge to treat photographs and prevent further degradation. Preventive conservation specifically aims to reduce, on the long term, the risks incurred by the works. The conservator must follow a code of ethics aimed toward respect for the work of art.