Protecting Precious Artworks and Prints

Protecting precious artwork and prints from harmful light exposure is crucial for capture purposes and preserving longevity and vibrancy. when displaying them. Lens-mounted polarizing filters play a significant role, but polarizing sheets offer an additional layer of protection, especially for light-sensitive mediums like watercolors, textiles, and photographs. Here's a deep dive into their applications and insights for lighting types. Some of the following information relates to the effects of polarizing sheets on items that are constantly illuminated and on continuous display, and it also applies to camera capture and digitization. Proper use of polarizing sheets can significantly enhance the visual quality of these materials by reducing glare and improving color saturation. Additionally, understanding the interaction between different lighting types and polarizers is crucial for achieving optimal results in both display and photography.

Polarizing sheets are transparent films that selectively filter specific light wavelengths. Typically, they block ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, contributing to artwork fading and deterioration. They can prove indispensable for reducing lighting glare when digitizing images with a camera. These sheets are placed over the viewing or capture lighting units; since they reduce light levels, it is best to take aperture priority exposure readings for camera capture. Since polarizing sheets are placed over your copy lights, they can be used with or without a lens-mounted polarizing filter.

The Aspects of Using Polarizing Filters and Sheets

Reduced Light Intensity: Polarizing filters and sheets dim overall light levels, mitigating the cumulative damage caused by prolonged exposure.

UV and IR blocking: They significantly slow down fading and color changes by filtering harmful UV and IR wavelengths for displayed prints.

Glare Reduction: They minimize reflections and glare, improving viewing and capture aspects and reducing distractions.

Aesthetic Enhancement: Sometimes, they can deepen the color saturation and enhance contrast, potentially improving the visual and capture experience.

Points To Be Aware of With Polarizing Filters & Sheets

Light Loss: They absorb some visible light, reducing overall illuminance. Choose sheets with lower light absorption for optimal viewing and capture conditions.

Color Cast: Some sheet types introduce a slight color cast, while others are optically neutral. When choosing, consider the print or artwork and desired visual effect.

Improper Use: Applying sheets directly on displayed artworks can trap moisture and damage them. Use dedicated frames or fixtures directly on each light source, not too close to the art.

Different Lighting Types for Polarizing Filters and Sheets

Incandescent Bulbs: While incandescent bulbs emit minimal UV radiation, their heat output can be harmful. Polarizing sheets can help manage heat and filter IR radiation.

Fluorescent Lights: Some fluorescent tubes emit significant UV radiation. Using UV-filtered polarizing sheets is highly recommended.

LED Lights: LEDs emit minimal UV and IR, making them suitable for artwork. Using low-absorption polarizing sheets can further mitigate visible light damage.

Sunlight: Sunlight poses the most significant threat due to its intense UV and IR radiation for displayed prints. Combining UV-filtering window films with polarizing sheets on fixtures inside the room offers added protection. Sunlight is suitable for capturing prints and artworks, but diffused light is the best practice.

Additional Camera Capture Tips

• Ensure the lighting is even across your subject; your camera on aperture priority will choose the correct shutter speed.

• Minimize all illumination except your capture lights.

By using polarizing filters and sheets strategically alongside other light control measures, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your precious prints or artwork, ensuring the best quality capture and lasting beauty and historical significance. The preceding information is relevant to artworks in your family's archives; it would not be wise to march up to the local art gallery with all your kits and polarizing sheets.

Next: Capture & Edit A Silvered Print