7 Easy Ways to Keep Your Photos Safe with Backups
1. The Cloud - An Easy Choice
Services like Amazon Photos make it easy to secure and access your data.
You can reach your files from anywhere and protect them from local hardware issues.
Pros:
Easy and reliable.
Cons:
Limited space for those with lots of data.
Comes with monthly fees.
Requires an internet connection, which might not be convenient all the time.
2. External Drive
For many photographers, the idea of storing memories in the cloud can be worrying.
External hard drives provide a more traditional approach to backups.
You can create copies of your data without monthly costs, making it a one-time investment that can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Pros:
You're in control, no need for the internet, and great for large data collections.
Cons:
Open to hardware issues, theft, or damage if kept in one place.
3. Using NAS (Network Attached Storage)
Devices like Synology have become game-changers for people with lots of digital stuff.
They offer both local and networked backup options.
With features like RAID for redundancy and the ability to create your cloud storage, NAS systems are awesome to protect your files.
Pros:
A great fit for most use cases.
Cons:
Higher upfront costs.
Complex for beginners.
Potential data loss in extreme cases like fires.
4. A Mix of Both
This is why many photographers go for a mix of strategies.
It’s best for you to combine your options.
Store your work in cloud services for easy access.
And back it up to external drives or NAS for extra security.
This approach offers you a safety net while still allowing easy access.
Pros:
A balanced approach for data storage and backup.
Cons:
Extra costs and the need to manage multiple storage solutions.
5. Local or Cloud?
The choice between local and cloud storage depends on your personal preference, budget, and tolerance for risk.
Photographers who use local prefer to be in control and have peace of mind, keeping their memories close by.
They don’t like cloud services much because of subscription costs, potential account issues, or security breaches.
On the other hand, those who prefer the cloud appreciate the convenience and accessibility of offsite storage.
6. The 3-2-1 Rule
To decide what to choose, I’d recommend to use the 3-2-1 rule:
Keep three copies of your files:
Two local copies on different devices
And one in the cloud.
7. What's Right for You?
In short:
If you're a tech geek and want control, NAS and local storage are great.
If you prioritize ease and accessibility, cloud storage like Amazon Photos, Backblaze, or Dropbox is your choice.
And if you're cautious, a mix of local and cloud backups is the way to go.
And That’s It
Backing up your files is a no-brainer.
Better safe than sorry :)
Happy shooting!
Hakan.