Organizing photographs can be a daunting task, especially when they’re scattered about your home.  Here are three things to consider as you begin the process.

• Album or Box? Choose a containment system:  photo album, e-file, CD, or photo box.  If you enjoy the feel of handling photos, choose a photo box.  Otherwise, choose the option that’s easiest and/or quickest for you to work with.

• What Do You Think? Sort, categorize, and label by the way that you think of the photos.  What’s the first thought that comes to mind when you’re looking for a picture?  Do you think of the year first or the event or family member?  Perhaps you think chronologically followed by event (e.g.,  2009 ž Jones Family Reunion).  Be sure to use a method that is easy to remember with categories that make sense to you.

• Keep it Up! Try to organize your photos as you get them printed or developed.  That way, you’ll be able to find them easily and they won’t get lost in the shuffle of every day life.