Basic Workflow Series #2: Moving Pictures Off Your Camera

Last time I gave you some best practices for using your camera efficiently. Today I will continue my Basic Workflow Series with some helpful tips for moving pictures off your camera. Do you still have pictures on your camera from your new baby, who is now 3 years old? How about that fantastic family vacation from 2008? If so, this email is for you! It is time to move those pictures off your camera and make room for all the awesome photos you will take in the coming weeks!

How To Move Pictures Off Your Camera and Onto Your PC
Most cameras connect to your computer, which allows you to move the pictures from one to the other. To set up this connection, plug the mini-USB cable into your camera and connect the other end to a USB port on your computer (there are usually several USB ports available). If you do not have this cable, contact Ted's to purchase one...you will need it!

Turn on both the camera and computer. In most cases, a box will pop up and ask if you want to move the picture files from the camera to the computer. If so, let the "pop up box" guide you through the process. If a box does not pop up, open your "My Pictures" folder (or wherever you store your photos) and create a new folder, such as "March 2010." Then, open the camera's picture file folder: click "Start," then click "My Computer," then double click on the camera drive or folder. Drag the picture files from the camera folder and drop them into the new folder you created. Once they are successfully stored on your computer, you can erase them from your camera. 

Note that different cameras and computers may function differently than what I describe above. If this process does not work for you, consult your camera and computer manuals or ask your local store for a quick demo on how to move pictures off the camera you bought. 

Mac users will follow a similar process, though the details will be a bit different. Essentially, connect your camera to your Mac and follow the prompts to move the pictures off your camera.

To move pictures off your mobile phone, connect your phone to your computer as described above, or email the pictures from your phone to your online account (instructions for this process can be found by logging into your online account and clicking the red "Order Prints and Enlargements" tab).

Set a Schedule 

The best habit to get into is to set a schedule or routine for moving pictures off your camera. A good method to try is to move them on the last day of every month, so your photos are organized by month. Another approach is to move your pictures after every event, like a vacation or child's birthday. Think about what works best for you, and stick with it. This will help to keep your photo library organized, as well as keep your camera's memory card empty and ready for more pictures! 

Next time, I will give you some great tips for storing and organizing your photos, as well as ordering prints. Until then, keep up the great work, and move your pictures off your camera regularly!