Preserving Memories: The Ultimate Guide to Storing Family Photos Digitally

Now that your photo session is done, it’s time to plan how you will store your photos for years to come. Today there are plenty of inexpensive and convenient options to store your photos safely. I depend on photo storage for every part of my business process, from planning the session to delivering the finished gallery.

This subject can intimidate people - but don’t worry! File storage is simple and easy, and once you’re comfortable with it, you can store everything you want to keep from photos and beyond.

Accidents like device failure, theft, or even accidental deletion can happen. Understanding your options will help you choose the best storage for your needs and make you feel secure in your custom photography investment. Below I’ve outlined the ways you can back up your photos, including options I use every day and some methods that may surprise you.

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External hard drive

This is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to back up your images. It’s a personal favorite of mine! You can store your images on an external hard drive and keep them safe from your primary device. This way, you can always retrieve your images in case of device failure or theft.

For sizing, a single session will fit on an 8 or 16gb USB drive or SD card. Large external hard drives are great for computer backup, file backup, and photos.

SD CARD | LARGE EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE | USB DRIVE

Cloud storage

Cloud storage services allow you to back up your images to access them from anywhere easily. These services include Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud, allowing you to back up your images online. Once uploaded, your images are saved to the cloud automatically. This option allows you to easily share with loved ones because you can access your photos from anywhere with an internet connection.

GOOGLE DRIVE | DROPBOX | ICLOUD

Online backup services

Another option many people overlook is an online backup service. Unlike with cloud storage, your images are backed up to remote servers that keep your images safe and secure. A few examples of these services are linked below.

BACKBLAZE | CRASHPLAN | CARBONITE

Burn images on DVDs or CDs

Another simple way to back up your images is to use CDs or DVDs. This method may take a little longer than the ones listed above, but it is a great alternative for those who want physical copies.

SECURE & PROTECT YOUR PHOTOS

Password protection: external storage devices such as USB drives and large external hard drives give you the ability to password-protect your files and photos. This adds an additional layer of security in case of theft.

Multiple backup methods

Multiple backup methods are the best way to ensure your images are safe. Backing up to a cloud service and having a physical drive keeps your photos in two separate, safe places.

Backing up your images is crucial to keep them safe and secure. Ensuring the longevity of your custom photography session is important, and with these methods, your photos will last for generations. So, don't take any chances—make sure your memories are preserved for the long haul. Trust me, you'll be grateful down the road when you can relive those cherished moments. These reliable methods will safeguard your photos and create a legacy that future generations will appreciate.

Now that you know how to store your photos, what are you waiting for? Reach out and book your session today!