5 Ways to Manage Photos in 2024

How many times have you scrolled through your phone, trying to find that one memorable photo? In the digital age of 2024, our lives are filled with countless snapshots, and managing them can be overwhelming.

With various options available, it's crucial to learn effective ways to keep your memories organized and accessible. Here’s the five ways of photo management and break down the pros and cons of each, making your digital memories safe and preserved.

5 Ways to Manage Photos in 2024

  1. Just Use Your Phone - Simplify your life by relying on your phone's built-in photo app, whether it's Google Photos or Apple Photos.

    • Pros:
      • Let artificial intelligence do the work for you, allowing easy searches by date, person, object, and even text
      • Access your photos anytime, anywhere directly from your phone
    • Cons:
      • Some settings may only save thumbnail versions, raising doubts about full-sized photo possession
      • Google and Apple gather a lot of information about your life through your photo collection
      • It's easy to let photos pile up without realizing it
  2. Save Your Photos in Folders on Your Computer - Take control by organizing your photos in folders on your computer.

    • Pros:
      • You have complete ownership and control of your pictures
      • It's most convenient to manage and work with your photos on your computer.
    • Cons:
      • Time-consuming and requires consistent effort to create and maintain organized folders.
      • Working with folders may not be the most enjoyable experience.
  3. Import Into a Photo Management Program - There are dozens of programs up there. Install it on your computer and instead of working with pictures or importing the pictures into the program 

    • Pros:
      • These programs make it easy to work with metadata and edit your photos.
    • Cons:
      • Regular commitment is needed to maximize benefits, you'll need to be consistent in using the program.
  4. Use a Cloud Storage Company - Opt for cloud storage solutions like Dropbox, OneDrive, Amazon Photos, or the recommendation – FOREVER Permanent Storage.

    • Pros:
      • You have access to your photos from any internet-connected device.
      • Your phone or computer won't be bogged down with large photo collections.
    • Cons:
      • It’s easy to get mixed up with being saved where you still have to manage it 
      • Except for FOREVER, other companies don't guarantee long-term photo preservation and migration to new technologies.
  5. Hire Someone to Manage Your Photos - There are many people out there who are doing this for a business where they will organize your photos for you

    • Pros:
      • You have someone who gets to know you and your family. . .  we watch you grow up every year and this personal connection is fantastic
    • Cons:
      • Professional services come at a cost. Then you have to decide if can you maintain it going forward or if will you need them for as long as you are taking family photos!?

We usually teach our clients how to add their photos and we offer a fantastic community where we can check in, and get help and motivation to stay on top of your family memories. Click here to learn more about the PixJourney Group.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving world of photo management, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Each method has its upsides and downsides, and the best fit depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and commitment. Whether you opt for the simplicity of your phone or hire a professional, the key is finding a method that helps you preserve your family’s photo estate.

And remember, this is just one aspect of your memories! If you have print photos, videos, memorabilia and more, you should check out our Roadmap to Saving Your Photos Once & For All.

Happy photo managing!