Simple
Guide to Storing Your Images on CD
Scanned images should be saved
where possible in uncompressed format (BITMAP or TIFF).
These are significantly larger files for storing,
but do not compromise the original quality of the
stored image.
Digitally
created images are most usually stored in compressed
format (such as JPEG or GIF). These are significantly
smaller files for storing but may compromise the quality
of the saved image. Note – compressed files are created
using software programs that may overtime be rewritten
and access may be lost if saved data is not updated
with a later software version.
Use
the highest quality / resolution scanner that is available
to you to optimise the images being saved. Note –
resolution is measured in pixels (dots) of red, green
and blue values. The higher number of pixels per inch
(ppi or dpi) will allow for better quality scanned
images.
Make more than one copy of the CDs and store in different
places. Since CDs deteriorate with handling and exposure
to light, dust and heat it is advisable to keep a
master copy for reference and a backup copy for access
and viewing. Note – copies used for handling and access
will have considerably shorter lives and may need
to be replaced far sooner.
Document
image details as fully as possible - a) PC, Scanner
or Camera specifications and CD Writer Drive details
(speed, manufacturer, serial numbers / date of purchase)
b) Title and Version of the software programs used
to create, scan, edit or save your images (including
the compatible operating system in use, eg Windows
98) b) CD size, speed, type and manufacturer c) Content
of the CD – index and name the images for ease of
recognition and access d) The source of the image
– digitally produced or scanned image, photo print
or paper clipping (denotes the original quality of
the image) e) File format (eg. Bitmap, JPEG) and size
of files stored f) Date of original digital archiving.
Do not stick labels on CDs (or try to remove them
if already applied). Denting, bending or scratching
the media can cause physical damage and loss of the
stored data (See Choosing Your Media). Do not write
on your CDs with a pen or hard point. Using permanent
markers may also allow chemical seepage from the ink
into the recording layer and cause deterioration of
the stored files.
Do
not delay in updating both hardware and software technology
as they become available. Refresh the data from the
old medium to the new whilst an element of backward
compatibility is still available.
Remember
to refresh and update all copies of your CDs if you
have spare or master copies in a different location.
Record
all new details for updated images with revised hardware
or software specifications, dates and file details.
Handle
your CDs as little as possible. Store them in a recommended
archival standard storage system and optimal environment.
Do
not neglect your original non-digital images. Store
your photos and clippings in archival standard storage
systems with minimal handling. If your images are
digital in origin, it may be worth taking the most
special files ‘out of the digital environment’ and
having a printed version made as well. (It may seem
like going backwards, but two types of storage medium
are usually better than one!) Remember to store these
images in the optimal environment for photographic
prints to extend their lifespan.
