Digital pictures capture an experience but it can be daunting trying to locate the moment once it is downloaded on a computer. Organize pictures by creating subfolders, tagging photos, and naming pictures to ensure easy and quick access to all the images.
Descriptive Photograph Subfolders
When downloading digital photos, the computer will usually automatically have them save to my pictures. The folder my pictures will become overwhelming in just a few short downloads, therefore it is important to create subfolders. Subfolders are folders that are linked to my pictures. Often, when downloading to the hard drive, the computer will have a pop-up requesting the appropriate site for the new folders. At the prompt simply create a new folder.
The new folder will also need a name and the more descriptive the name, the easier it will be to locate the picture in the future. "Christmas" and "Birthday" are not great names as they are too generic. Which Christmas or birthday? When looking for a photograph for baby's 1st birthday, it will take a great deal of time and energy. It is best to always include a date, at least the year but month and year is ideal with a few short words describing the occasion. Family Christmas 2010 is better than just Christmas. As well, Justin's 10th Birthday 1907 is a better alternative than Birthday. The more descriptive the name of the folder is, the easier it is to find the photo without sifting through thousands of images.
Naming Pictures
Creating subfolders is done in a matter of moments but naming individual pictures can be time-consuming. It is best to name pictures after each download. As well, photos can be named in groups rather that individually. For example, after downloading the camping trip to Banff National Park, have all the pictures named Banff National Park. Doing this allows for easy access to a specific occasion. Computer programs automatically name pictures with random letters and numbers. It is easier to locate photographs for books or to print with familiar names.
Tag Photos
For each picture download, it is ideal to tag the photo. Tag a photo is simply inputting the name of the individuals in the picture. Most programs have the capability to tag all individuals in the photograph. After tagging, it is easy to locate all the photographs with a certain individual. When creating a book, simply input the name of an individual and all the photos will appear regardless of the subfolder they are stored in.
Photo Back Up
The most important organizing tip is to always back up the digital photographs. Pictures can be downloaded to an external drive, DVD, CD, or memory stick. It is best to always have a copy of the digital images in case the hard drive crashes.
Naming pictures, tagging photos, and creating subfolders will organize photos to make them easier to access and view. Once photographs are organized on the computer it is time to create memory DVDs or photo books.
Debbie DeSpirt - Debbie DeSpirt is an Elementary Teacher for the York Catholic District School Board in Ontario, Canada. Her post secondary education ...
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