Where to Store Photos: A Guide to Preserving Digital Memories

Recently, I received another email from a couple whose wedding I photographed two years ago. They wrote, “We lost our wedding photos. Do you still have a copy?”
This is the fifth such message I’ve received this year alone. To help others avoid this fate, I’ve put together a simple guide on how to properly store photos and other essential data.

Don’t risk losing your memories. Learn from others’ mistakes.

Why Could You Lose Your Photos?

Photo loss can happen for many reasons—from accidentally deleting a folder to hardware failure. Hard drives, for example, may seem reliable, but they are surprisingly fragile and prone to breakdown. Your laptop or phone, where you’ve stored your photos, could also be stolen. In events like fires or floods, rescuing digital files might be the last thing on your mind.

Often, this is when the frantic search begins to locate your photographer, hoping they still have copies of your photos. As for personal photos? Most people find they only have what’s been posted on social media. Hardly ideal, right?

5 Options for Storing Your Photos

Using a combination of methods is best. This way, even if one fails, you won’t lose everything.

1. External Hard Drives and SSDs

Why: External drives are a classic storage solution, but they require a few safety measures:

Buy at least two drives and store them in different locations: one at home, the other with a friend or at the office.
Use SSDs; they are more durable but can still wear out over time.
Connect drives only when transferring files to minimize virus risk and accidental deletions.
Check file integrity annually.

×Important Note: Hard drives aren’t foolproof. They can fail, which is why it’s best to use multiple storage options.

2. Home NAS Server

Why: Network Attached Storage (NAS) allows for multiple hard drives configured as a RAID array. This setup copies data across drives, so if one fails, your data remains safe.

NAS systems can be configured for automatic cloud backup, adding another layer of security.
NAS can store not just photos but also videos and other files.
Cost: Good NAS systems start around $350.

3. Optical Discs (DVD, Blu-ray, M-DISC)

Why: Though less popular now, optical discs are a durable, long-term storage solution. The only downside is finding a computer with an optical drive, though USB-compatible drives are available.

For long-term storage, M-DISC is a great option. These discs resist aging and come in DVD and Blu-ray formats.
Blu-ray discs hold up to 50 GB, while M-DISC can last over 100 years, making them ideal for archiving.

4. Cloud Storage

Why: Cloud storage is popular and reliable, providing a backup that protects against theft or physical loss.

Choose trusted services like Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox, or Yandex.Disk for automatic high-quality photo backups.

Precautions: Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and check subscription renewal dates.

Cost Guide (2025):

Google Drive: 100 GB for $26/year
Dropbox: 1 TB for $99/year
Amazon Photos : Unlimited $139/year
Microsoft OneDrive: 100 GB for $19.99/year
pCloud: 500 GB for $49.99/year or $175 one-time lifetime payment
Mega: 2 TB for $110/year

×Note: Not all cloud services offer secure end-to-end encryption. Avoid sharing sensitive or confidential files without it.

5. Printing Photos

Why: The most foolproof way to keep your favorite shots safe is to print them. Photo albums and photo books are resistant to digital obsolescence and offer a reliable way to preserve memories.
For the best results, consider a professionally crafted photo book. Your photographer likely has the original files and can design a book that captures the essence of your special day.

With printed photos, you can rest assured that years down the line, when your children ask about your wedding day, you won’t have to hold back tears over lost memories. Instead, you’ll enjoy a cozy family evening around the fireplace, flipping through your photo book.

Where To Store Photos: Security Tips

Automate Backups: Set up automatic backups with services like iCloud or Google Photos to ensure new photos are saved without worry.
Data Encryption: For extra security, use services with encryption, such as MEGA or Tresorit.
Regular File Checks: Annually inspect copies on external drives and NAS to prevent loss due to equipment wear.