Building a photo archive is a practical way to document changes over time and preserve memories. Start with a clear organizational structure: create folders by year, event, or doll name, and maintain a consistent naming convention for all files. Include metadata in filenames or a separate spreadsheet: date, camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO), lighting conditions, location, and any notable styling details. This data helps you reproduce looks or compare conditions later. Regular backups are essential. Use at least two separate storage locations, with one off-site or in the cloud to protect against hardware failure.
Lighting quality makes a big difference in photo quality. Use diffuse, consistent lighting to minimize harsh shadows, and shoot in RAW format when possible to maximize post-processing flexibility. Create a routine for editing that preserves the original image while offering a consistent aesthetic: adjust exposure, color balance, and sharpness uniformly across a shoot. Periodically review archives to ensure metadata remains accurate and non-essential files are pruned. By organizing thoughtfully, backing up securely, and maintaining consistent metadata, you’ll build a durable, searchable photo archive that grows with your collection.