So Great Aunt Mabel has finally decided that you're the one. You're the one she wants to safeguard the family heirlooms in the form of a HUGE assortment of old family photographs into which she has poured every fiber of her being to keep for that special relation to carry the torch. And it's you. Gulp.
Before you panic, step back from the problem. You're not alone. It's a common challenge.
Before you do anything, think of that box as arriving in a genealogical emergency room and you're the doctor that has to triage the items.
Your First Three Tasks
Like a triage you can handle the most important three steps first before you even really dive into that pile of pictures.
- Interview Mabel;
- Scan those pictures; and
- File them away for safe-keeping.
As you begin the process, take a deep breath and realize that a family photo collection is indeed a responsibility. When we agree and even embrace the role of family historian we investigate the lives of our ancestors and those pictures are key pieces of evidence of their existence. Throw them out? NEVER. Find them another home, perhaps.
Take the pledge. Care for the collection or find another descendant to be caretaker. Either way, you're saving the past for the next generation.
If you need to talk through organizing strategies or preservation solutions, ask for a special 30 minute consult at the introductory price of $60.00. Email me at
photodetective@maureentaylor.com for more details.
My books
Preserving Family Photographs and
Photo Organizing Practices
are the perfect set for anyone faced with boxes of pictures. Get the set for
$35.00 now and save $9.00.
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