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Photo Management Tip



Photo Organization.


The first step is to get a good photo management program and learn how to use it. Next, you'll want to create a photo folder structure that you are comfortable with. Here are three suggested methods. Pick the one that best suits you or create your own.

Folder Structure Method #1:
My Pictures
      Acquire Work Area (pre-edit)
      Your Family
      Your Relatives
      Your Friends
      Events
      Trips & Vacations
      Scenery
      Misc.

Folder Structure Method #2
My Pictures
      Acquire Work Area (pre-edit)
      By Year
            Category within year
                  Specific event within category

Folder Structure Method #3
My Pictures
      Acquire Workarea (pre-edit)
      Family
            By Date
      Holidays
            By Date
      Birthdays
            By Date
      Other Events
            By Date
      Travel
            By Date


Using Windows Explorer, create your beginning photo folders according to the method you prefer.

Here are the steps that I use from camera to final folder:
  1. Create a new folder with a descriptive name in the Acquire Workarea folder.

  2. Copy photos from your camera or flash card reader to the new folder.

  3. Orient all photos.

  4. Backup raw photos to a CD labeling it with date and descriptive title.

  5. Examine all photos in the new folder eliminating duplicates and unacceptable photos.

  6. Batch rename photos in the new folder.

  7. Using your camera, delete this batch of photos from your camera's memory card.

  8. As time permits, edit each remaining photo in the new folder.

  9. Add descriptions and keywords to the photo.

  10. Batch resize photos in the new folder as needed.

  11. Move entire new folder to appropriate spot in your photo folder structure.
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