So, I was buying GOLD DVDs today and learned some new information thanks to a helpful gentleman at Media Supply. Apparently, Silver CDs/DVDs last about 100 years and Gold CDs/DVDs last about 300 years. Who knew? I mean, while 300 years is awesome, is it needed? I didn’t even KNOW about Silver discs until today! Also, helpful things to know for archiving purposes:
*Gold and Silver help stop the breakdown process of discs
*Burn to one time discs, not rewrite-able ones
*Don’t write directly on discs, label their case
*Don’t use paper cases, especially paper cases with the film see thru panels. The paper will break down eventually AND the film panels will stick to the discs and destroy them. There are awesome C-shells or other plastic alternatives that help to seal out dust and add an extra level of preservation.
*Store discs in jewel cases or some other case that can be stood up on its end. Laying a disc flat can cause distortion over the years and if you stack them up one on top of another that only increases the likelihood that damage will occur. Standing a disc up is the best way to maximize preservation of your precious memories.
Just a little bit of what I learned today! Hope it helps someone out there! And, while I’m at it, I’m going to say it again – back up your pics in two places if they mean a lot to you! Hard drives fail – it’s guaranteed. So, use a hard drive, external drive, dvd, cd whatever! Just back those pics up! I can certainly tell you from experience that it’s devastating to lose your baby’s 1 year pictures…the fact that I’m a mom AND a professional photographer made me hate myself even more for losing Penelope’s baby pics. AND – print your pics! You’ve taken then to enjoy them – print them, and enjoy them!
I don’t claim to know everything about picture archival, but the guys at Media Supply sure do know tons! Good luck!
by Eileen
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