Peter Hampson took us through the challenges of organising our photographs. For many the problems start with the sheer volume of material and the diversity of formats. Then, why do we want to organise them – for current use or posterity or both? Assuming we can decide, we have to think about: fading and staining of prints; file degradation and bit-rot; changing technology; and back-ups and the sustainability of on-line providers. Conclusion? If you want to leave anything to future generations you can’t beat prints, albums, photo books and a sturdy shoe box.
Photo: Material from the Beechwoods Project in need of organising, December 2017