Did you know that September is Save Your Photos Month? Join us for a month-long quest to protect and preserve your family’s lifetime of photos, film, and memorabilia. #SaveYourPhotos2020
Day 20: Back Up the Mess
Before you begin sorting your digital images, back up the mess. Then no matter what happens while you’re organizing in the working copy, you’ll have a copy of the original files. #SaveYourPhotos2020
Day 21: Create a Digital Photo Hub
Your digital photo hub is a designated location, such as an external hard drive, where all your original digital and scanned photos live. Copy your digital photos and videos from all your various devices including phones, camera cards, USB sticks, etc. Then begin to sort by date or theme, or whichever organizing structure you’ve determined. As you scan prints, add those image files to the hub. #SaveYourPhotos2020
Day 22: 3-2-1 Backup Strategy
Use the 3-2-1 backup strategy to safeguard your digital files. Create THREE copies of your digital data (photos, videos, documents, etc.) stored on TWO different types of media or devices (a computer and an external hard drive, for example), with ONE copy located off-site (another physical location or the cloud). #SaveYourPhotos2020
Day 23: Scan Your Photos
Scanning your printed photos extends the lifetime of your pictures, creates a backup, and increases your ability to share and enjoy your memories. Don’t forget to digitize your slides and negatives as well.
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Day 24: Adding Metadata
Metadata is information that is digitally attached to your images and can help identify key information. This data makes it easier for you to search for your images and helps tell the story of the photo. Photo organizing software allows you to embed this information into your image files. #SaveYourPhotos2020
Day 25: Store Prints Safely
Your printed photos and memorabilia should be stored away from light and dust in archival containers and located in the main part of the house, with average room temperatures and low humidity. Avoid basements, attics, and garages – your photos should live where you live. #SaveYourPhotos2020
Day 26: Schedule Regular Maintenance
Once your photos and videos are organized, your collection will need regular maintenance and attention. Schedule time at regular intervals on your calendar to delete extraneous photos from your phone, ensure backups are running, and add new images to your digital photo hub. #SaveYourPhotos2020
Colorado Photo Savers, LLC 