Gather before deleting
Photos spread across phones, computers and memory cards make it difficult to know what exists. Identify those sources and copy the files into a working folder. Keep the originals until you have checked that the copy is complete and readable. Open a sample from each source. Remember videos and formats that may not appear in your usual gallery.
Create an understandable structure
Organising by year and event is often easy to maintain: a year folder followed by a name such as 2026-10-chaves-walk. Use consistent names and avoid dozens of levels. Not every photo needs an event; a monthly folder may suit everyday pictures. The best system is one you can understand without remembering complicated rules. Explain exceptions in a short note, particularly when working with old scans.
Separate selection from preservation
Removing blurred images can reduce volume, but work on a copy while you are still learning the system. Similar-looking photos may have different resolutions, dates or edits. Before using a duplicate finder, check its criteria and review the results. Keep a favourites folder for sharing without changing the main collection. Selecting what you show need not determine everything you retain.
Check the copies regularly
A second folder on the same drive does not protect against failure of that drive. Keep independent copies, including one away from the main device, and test file recovery. If you use a synchronisation service, understand how it propagates deletions: synchronisation and backup are not always equivalent. Set aside time periodically to add new images and inspect the archive. Organisation is useful only if you can still open the memories when you need them.
