External Hard Drive

External hard drives are one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to store large sets of images.

• Choose a reputable brand (like Seagate, Western Digital, or LaCie)
• Look for at least 1TB of storage or space if you’re storing high-resolution photos
• Keep the drive in a safe, cool, dry place—not plugged in constantly. Place it in a storage case if needed. 

Tip: Use one hard drive to back up all your family’s important digital content in folders by event/year.

Cloud Storage Services

Cloud storage is a must for off-site, always-available access to your files. It ensures that your photos are protected in the event that your physical devices fail. Cloud storage for photos is also great, as it allows you to access them anytime, anywhere in the world. Whether you're on a computer or smartphone, as long as you have internet access, you can access your professional photos.

Top cloud options include:

• Google Drive – 15GB free, easy sharing

• Dropbox – Great for organized folders and file syncing

• iCloud – Especially easy for Apple users

• Amazon Photos – Unlimited storage for Prime members

• Backblaze or Carbonite – Automated full-device backups

Tip: Set your cloud app to auto-sync your “Photos” folder so you never forget.

USB Flash Drive

Flash drives are portable and straightforward, but should never be your only backup.

They’re great for:

• Sharing photos with family or friends
• Keeping a duplicate copy in a fireproof safe or off-site location
• Traveling with a set of important images

Tip: Use a high-quality USB (at least 64GB–128GB) and label each one by year or session type.

Archival Discs - Optional Long-Term Storage

For ultra-long-term storage, consider burning your files to archival-grade DVDs or Blu-ray discs (such as M-Discs).

• These are designed to last up to 1,000 years
• Store them in a fireproof box or safe
• Useful for preserving legacy images and prints

Not a daily use method, but excellent for long-term archival storage.

Safe Storage Recommendations

• Label your files and folders clearly (Example: 2025_SmithFamily_Session)
• Review your backups annually—are they still working?
• Rotate out aging storage devices every 3–5 years
• Use password protection for cloud accounts and encrypted drives
• Consider professional archival services for once-in-a-lifetime events like weddings