While my expertise lies in photography, I have extensive experience archiving a wide range of collections, including flat artwork (paintings, drawings, lithographs), sculpture, film & video, books, historical ephemera, clothing, and jewelry. Whether you want to organize, preserve, or make your collection easily accessible, I provide tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Many clients seek my services in preparation for insurance or estate valuation, while others wish to monetize valuable intellectual property or simply digitize collections to share with family and friends.
Regardless of the scope, the process to achieve your desired outcome follows a structured approach:
Archive Planning
A personalized archive plan is developed based on your goals. Key considerations include digitization needs, necessary edits, optimal storage solutions, and long-term preservation strategies. I will recommend archival materials such as boxes, sleeves, and albums to ensure the longevity of your collection.
Detailed Inventory of Assets
The first step involves a thorough assessment and inventory, typically organized in an Excel spreadsheet. This serves as the foundation for your personal digital archive, ensuring all items are documented and structured in an accessible way.
Preservation
Proper archival storage is essential to prevent deterioration. For photography, negatives, and prints, I ensure that materials are stored in safe environments with appropriate archival supplies to prevent future damage. Immediate preservation steps are taken for any items already showing signs of degradation.
Editing
For photography collections, I can assist in selecting the best images from a series. If you’d prefer to be actively involved in this process, we can establish a workflow that makes editing seamless and efficient.
Digitization
Your collection is carefully digitized with high-resolution scanning for negatives and flat artwork, and professional photography for three-dimensional objects. Files are securely stored on a personal hard drive, with backups maintained and cloud storage via Amazon Cloud for instant access.
Personal Archive Library
All digitized assets are compiled into an easy-to-use, searchable database. Each item is keyworded and tagged with relevant details such as location and value. The archive can be integrated with your home entertainment system, allowing you to view photographs and home movies directly on your TV.
Archive Maintenance
In today’s digital age, your archive may continue to grow. I offer ongoing support to help you manage, edit, and maintain your collection over time.
Website Creation
For clients looking to share their collections securely, I can create a private, password-protected website, allowing you to control who has access and even provide print ordering options for select images.
Printing Consulting & Services
I believe in the value of high-quality prints that can become cherished family heirlooms. I provide guidance on creating beautifully printed albums and fine art prints that are designed to last for generations.
Art Installation Consulting
Professional framing and installation are key to preserving and showcasing your collection. I collaborate with top framers and art installers in Los Angeles to help you select the best framing and placement options to enhance your space.
Monetizing Your Collection
Your collection may hold significant financial potential. I can assist in placing your collection with image licensors or exploring opportunities to sell fine art prints through galleries while maintaining the integrity of your archive.
Why Choose Geraldine Baum?
With over a decade of experience in archiving and preserving fragile photography and artworks, I offer personalized attention and access to the highest-quality preservation and digitization techniques available.
I welcome the opportunity to discuss your project and goals.
📞 Call (323) 578-5353 to schedule a complimentary one-hour consultation. If you’re in the Los Angeles area, I can meet in person. Virtual consultations are available for out-of-town clients. Prior to our consultation, I will provide a brief questionnaire to better understand your project needs.