As a professional photographer I find that my client files are in impeccable order while my own family and vacation images are piled in boxes with negatives scattered to the four winds; probably just like yours!
Well, I'm here to tell you that I have a 'goof-proof' way to get them in order. One of the first things you need to remember is the importance of keeping up with the task - and avoiding further stacks of photos and negs stuck in boxes. Let's forget about the past for a few moments and begin with the photos you have now. Let's start with your summer vacation photos, which will actually be fun! Gather the kids and start sorting-and relive the moments; remembering the funny things that happened along the way add to the pleasure.
The process really becomes a system. Pictures will end up in one of three places depending on their importance: the first option being the trash can. Oh, but I can't you say...Don't be afraid to toss those that really aren't so good. They only take up space and add to the piles. The second option is storage and the third is albums for those prize images you want to share with others. With this strategy, you can stop and start whenever you choose depending on how much time you have at any given point, which makes the whole process less daunting.
Need some motivation for sound photo management? Pictures are about the only tangible thing you have to show for your travels and momentous occasions in your lifetime like birth, graduation, marriage and family. So...Let's break each phase down...

1. Sort and Toss!
An important key to scaling down your piles is to edit, edit, edit. It's all right if every shot is not a winner-not even the pros bat 1,000. You don't need to cling to every frame. As soon as you get your pictures back, immediately throw out any shots that are too dark, out of focus, or unflattering. Next eliminate redundant shots; those that look basically the same. Pick just a few that sum up the thrill of the moment. Toss the rest. You'll still have the negatives.
While your memory is still fresh, it's a good idea to write a note on the back of the photo. (See my "suds in your eye" line of greeting cards) I suggest using a Sharpie. Jot down the place and the date and maybe even a profound statement. It makes for great family get-togethers, not to mention a little blackmail here and there. You'll want to remember the story...pictures are the story of your life!

2. File them in boxes!
OK. The photos have made it thru the first cut. Now you'll want to store them and the negatives in special photo cartons about the size of a shoe box, only a little sturdier and much prettier. Most of them come with envelopes for the negatives and dividers.
On the negative sack you'll want to write down the date and the event for easy reference. If you're really into this you can use a numbering system-identifying each photo on the back with the envelope number and the frame number. If you never go another step further at least your photos are together and safe!
If you want photos to last longer, make sure to store them correctly. Extreme temperatures and humidity can dramatically shorten the life span of your photos and negatives! If you're comfortable, your photos are comfortable. That means, do not store them in the attic, the basement, the garage or anywhere near pipes that might break and leak.

3. Share them!
Now it's time to find the creme d'la creme. Pull your favorite images...maybe 10 or 20 will do. Put them in a mini-album for easy and repeated viewing. Consider making an album devoted to one trip or one child. Paste down photos with acid-free glue or tape. Add a little 'stamping' or calligraphy and you've got a one of a kind album made with your own hands. Tada! Got an extra special photo? Let gail ann frame it in one of her funky found frames...suddenly it becomes a work of fine art you can display proudly.

4. Going digital?
What, you say you're into computers? With the digital age upon us many of you may want to preserve your images on disk. Gail Ann is happy to do this for you. At just $3.50 per image (minimum 10) I will supply you with a CD full of your images. They can be uploaded to a personal website, they can be printed out on your own color printer or they can be printed out photographically thru gail ann gallery. This will eliminate all those boxes for sure! Actually, it won't. You'll need storage boxes for your CD's.

Happy sorting & storing!

gail ann

206-371-0585 or email at:gail@gailannphotography.com