How to protect your digitised photos for the long term — next steps


At Snapshot Memories, we know how precious your family photos are. These captured moments tell the story of your life, and digitising them is the first step in safeguarding those memories for future generations. Once we provide your digitised photos, it’s essential to take some additional steps to ensure your photos are well-protected.

Here are some tips for keeping your digital memories safe:

1. Make extra backup copies

Think of your USB stick as the first layer of protection, but not the only one. Technology can fail, and USB sticks are no exception. To ensure your memories are safe, copy your photos onto multiple storage devices, such as:

  • Your computer’s hard drive.

  • An external hard drive or SSD (Solid State Drive).

Having at least two backups in different places reduces the risk of losing everything if something happens to your USB stick.

2. Use cloud storage

Cloud storage services allow you to save your photos online, so they’re accessible from anywhere. Popular options include:

  • Google Photos (great for organising and sharing).

  • Dropbox.

  • Amazon Photos (free for Prime members).

  • Apple iCloud (great for iPhone users).

Uploading your photos to a trusted cloud provider ensures your memories are safe even if your physical devices fail. Many services also let you organise your photos into albums for easy access.

3. Share copies with family and friends

Sharing your photos with trusted loved ones adds an extra layer of security. Consider giving a family member or close friend a copy of your USB stick.

This way, if anything happens to your copies, you’ll know there’s another backup out there. Bonus: they’ll enjoy having access to the photos as well!

4. Label and organise your files

To make your digital photos easy to find, organize them into folders by year, event, or theme. Rename files with meaningful titles like “1995_Christmas_Day.jpg” or “2003_Wedding_Anniversary.jpg.”

Taking the time to label and sort now will save you (and your family) time later.

5. Keep software and devices updated

If you’re using a computer or an external hard drive to store your photos, ensure that your operating system and backup software are up to date. Outdated systems can become incompatible or prone to failure, putting your photos at risk.

6. Print your favourites

While digital copies are incredibly convenient, there’s nothing quite like holding a photo in your hands. Consider reprinting your favourite photos and storing them in albums or frames.

Final thoughts

Your family photos are more than just pictures—they’re irreplaceable memories. By taking these steps to protect your digitised photos, you can ensure they’ll be enjoyed for years to come.

At Snapshot Memories, we’re always here to help with tips, tools, and advice for preserving your family’s legacy. If you have any questions or need assistance with your photos, don’t hesitate to reach out!