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| Exhibit by Eric Kessels, Images Uploaded to Flickr in a Single Day Image Courtesy: Foam in Amersterdam |
That is how the evolution of photography has been described. From what used to take minutes per individual exposure in the late 19th century, to today’s rapid image capture at multiple frames per second recorded and instantaneously viewable, we shoot pictures with almost a reckless abandonment.
However, taking photographs is one thing. Keeping them organized so you can get to them and share them as you would like, when you want to, is something completely different!
So What Are We To Do?
Are we destined to merely drown in the results of satisfying our insatiable appetites in order to hold onto the ability to 'freeze frame' as many moments of life as possible?
Absolutely not!
Least we forget, along with the technological advancements in ability to take photographs has also come tremendous progress in the tools and methods available to manage or organize them.
Some Old Ideas Still Apply!
Prolific poet and author Rudyard Kipling, (1865-1936) was a complex man. Yet, in his literary work the “The Elephant's Child”, Kipling unveils one of life’s secrets about how to gain knowledge with six simple words.
Today, these "6 Honest Serving Men", are still great mile posts in helping to disentangle what can become rather unconquerable spheres running over with images, in both paper and digital photographs. We know them as six questions. They are...
What? - Why? - Where? - When? - How? - Who?
Asking Questions as You Sort & Organize
Pictures are always about a story. These stories are either associated with someone in the photo, taking the photo, or connected to the photo's subject. Even seemingly frivolous and insignificant photographs have a narrative that accompany them.
There was some reason the shutter button was pressed. If we use Kipling's six to ferret those stories out - and connect them with the photos in some fashion - the rest is really all downhill.
There was some reason the shutter button was pressed. If we use Kipling's six to ferret those stories out - and connect them with the photos in some fashion - the rest is really all downhill.
Apply the A-B-C's of Photo Organization
The next step is to apply what Cathi Nelson, founder of the Association of Personal Photo Organizers calls, the A-B-C's of photo organizing. This system helps to actually transform your pile of pictures into themed collections focused upon key areas such as; People - Things - Places - Events.
Now instead of just an accumulation, you have a photo anthology of sorts. This collection of works will most likely contain various photographically related stories centered around one of the key focus areas.
The end result is a fun, enjoyable way to share and connect with family or friends. Using your collections will be easy to access, now and for generations to come.
Need Help Getting Started?
If you are looking for help, a Personal Photo Organizer can get you started! Check out the APPO website to find an organizer near you.
Need Help Getting Started?
If you are looking for help, a Personal Photo Organizer can get you started! Check out the APPO website to find an organizer near you.
 | Digital Directions sponsor E-Z Photo Scan can help you get started archiving your photos digitally! Click to learn more about photo scanners, training, and service options that are right for you or your organization. Blog Contributor, Richard (Rick) Lippert is an APPO Member. |
