Are you ready to do a good old spring clean?
We here, in the Alberta prairies, are just starting to see the glimmers of spring and renewed life – in between the random snow storms that just don’t know when to quit!!!
Nature is beginning to wake up from its winter hibernation and with it comes an energy that can’t be denied … it’s time to start getting ready for the new season upon us.
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Spring cleaning isn’t just for closets and cupboards – it’s also the perfect time to rescue the memories hiding in boxes, drawers, musty basements and old albums. Those VHS tapes, printed photos and slides hold priceless moments. But time, dust and aging media can cause them to fade, warp, or worse … disappear forever. Don’t let that happen to your memories. If getting your photos organized and preserved has been on your to-do list for some time now, maybe it’s time to spring clean them. 3 Practical Steps to Preserving Your Photos Step 1: The Hunt It’s time to dig out all of those boxes and bins that have been hiding all of your photos. Set up a temporary spot in your home where you can gather and prepare them for the next step. |
Step 2: Curate the Photos
Essentially, what you’re doing here is eliminating the superfluous photos – yes, you need to get rid of some photos.
I recently wrote an article on this topic, so if you’re interested in learning more about curating photos, check it out here.
You can also use this to help you make those tough decisions on what photos to let go of.
Step 3: Scan Your Photos
If you’re inclined to DIY this, here is a suggestion: invest in a photo scanner. It doesn’t need to be a huge expenditure, but it will be worth it. A photo scanner will provide benefits that a flatbed scanner generally cannot.
Benefits of a Photo Scanner
- Converts photos into digital formats vs a PDF format – allows for easy sharing and storage options
- High-quality resolution that allows for detailed reproductions
- Time-saving batch scanning – photo scanners feature automatic feeders that allow you to scan hundreds of photos in mere minutes
- Automatic repair and enhancements – these machines typically come with software that, when enabled, can automatically correct red-eye, faded colours, and some scratches
The Epson FastFoto scanner is one of the best cost-effective options out there. It’s the one I use for my client projects and this little beast does a phenomenal job.
If doing this yourself is not your thing, you can have a professional do it for you. There are still businesses out there you can take your photos to for scanning.
Or you can opt to go the route of the white-glove service and hire a professional Photo Manager to do the work for you.
Caution … shameless plug approaching … this is a service I offer to my clients. If you’re interested in learning more, check it out here, or contact me for more information.
This season, spring clean your memories by turning them into digital files that are easy to enjoy, share and preserve.
