Here are some tips for storing and archiving your images as well as basic camera information. 

Camera Types: 

• Point & Shoot/ Camera Phones: Small & compact but limited abilities because of the lens. 
• DSLR: Larger sensor, interchangeable lenses and superior image quality. 
• Mirrorless: Larger sensors than P+S, interchangeable lenses but smaller and lighter than DSLR’s. 

Memory Cards: 

• Memory cards come in many formats, ex: Compact Flash card (CF) and SD.  
• Memory cards come in many sizes, ex: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, etc. 
• Memory cards have a finite amount of information they can hold based on their size and the size of the images that are being captured.
• Memory cards do not last forever! These cards are not indestructible and should be cared for. Keep them in a safe place and use memory card holders.
• Format your cards every time you put them in your camera- information other than your images can build up and this excess data can lead to corruption.
• Use a greater amount of smaller cards as opposed to shooting all of your images on one card. This way if a card is corrupted you only lose some of your images. 
• If your camera has a dual slot, use the SD card as a back up JPG file in case something happens to the primary card. 

Downloading Files: 

• Use card reader or sd slot in computer to download your files. The cord that attaches to the camera is doable, but if your camera dies during the transfer your images could be corrupted. 

Archiving: 

• Always back up your files! I cannot stress this enough. Set a reminder to back up monthly or weekly depending on how often you shoot. 
• Do not delete off the card until you have downloaded files to your computer and then backed it up. I only save my jpg back up cards and format and reuse my primary cards with RAW files. 
• Use external hard drives to store photos. This is the most cost effective and easiest way. 
• Print your images! Home decor, photo albums, gifts, these are all important! Decades from now you will be grateful of this habit. 

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File size & type: 

1. The file types used in digital cameras are JPEG and RAW.
2. JPEG is a compressible file that can be read by any program.
3. You can change the size of the file in camera or in a software program.
4. Use JPEG to post/send images, they are smaller and degrade over time. 
5. RAW is a more advanced format with more information and editing capabilities.

Reach out with any follow up questions or for information on Private lessons in photography or post production. We work both in-person and remotely!