So, you found out digital files don’t last forever.  What now?  Believe me, I felt the exact same way.

Here are 3 ways to save your digital files, I have found for you.

Digital Saver #1: in the right environment

Keep CDs and USB stored in a cool, dry and dark area.  Think of it as the same way we protect our skin from damage. Without that sunscreen, the best you’ll get out of CDs are 2-5 years and 8-10 years for a flash drive. Floppy disks last…wait, floppy disks?  Yep, I threw that one in there because we all had them.  But who actually has a way to read them anymore? Along with the other ways we use to store our media like VHS tapes and cassette tapes. (Seriously, I have a few floppies and I’d LOVE to see what’s on them)

Same with unwanted chemicals, those song names you color coded on the outside of the CD, brings the lifespan way down.

Digital Saver #2: online backup systems

Let’s get our digital files off data storing media and save your digital files onto the cloud, right?  Nothing can go wrong there.  Unless of course the company closes or locks you out of your account.  Am I the only one who still can’t access my photobucket account?!

Pick a good one, and they’ll maintain copies of your files that are frequently updated. Blackblaze, Crashplan and Dropbox are a few of my favorites.

Digital Saver #3: keep them moving

Keep moving your digital files onto different backup options by keeping everything up to date.  Don’t assume the one way you have of storing your digitals won’t start to fade eventually.

Refresh your USB sticks by inserting and checking the data at least once a year. Along with all digital backups. Make sure you are checking on them every year.

But, the best way to save your digital files…

Oh, boy.  I get it.  It seems like a lot to remember and frequently update.

 

When you are thinking about long term preservation of your digital media, think about what happens to them long past our time.  Who has access to them?

Our families will turn into great investigators by the end of searching right?!

Imagine what it would feel like finding your ancestors photographs tucked neatly in a box. How thrilling and exciting it is to see your family’s pastime and history.

It is my whole hearted duty to help you preserve your family memories by creating visual prints. That way you can pass them down and show what your family’s life was like growing up, and raising your own family during this lifetime.

Because it means so much to me for my clients to touch and feel their printed artwork and because you’ve stuck with me all the way to the end of this email. Until May 31st I am offering 15% off my products.

Let’s work together to create your story with a handmade album, or print your favorite photos for archival storage in a custom linen box or a handcrafted frame.

Simply send me a message through here to get started.