What You Said: How You Share Your Photos
Sharing Photos: Reader Favorite Methods
Recently, we solicited input from our audience regarding their preferred methods for sharing photographs with loved ones. We are now presenting a compilation of the techniques employed by HTG readers to distribute their images.
The most frequently cited approach to photo sharing involved utilizing cloud storage solutions. Numerous individuals highlighted the benefits of substantial SkyDrive accounts.
Reader Experience with SkyDrive
Dragonbite shared their workflow: “Previously, I relied on PicasaWeb, uploading directly from Shotwell, but transitioned to SkyDrive with its 25 GB capacity. My imported photos synchronize automatically with SkyDrive, and I then distribute a link to those I wish to share with.”
They continued, “I maintain a secondary desktop computer as a backup repository for images imported from both my camera and my wife’s. Before deleting photos from my laptop – and consequently from SkyDrive – I verify their presence on the desktop computer. I would appreciate SkyDrive incorporating features such as image rotation or tag-based person search.”
“Should Google Drive offer a comparable solution, directing imported photos to Picasa Web, complete with its full feature set, instead of Google Drive, and preventing automatic sharing on Google+, I would consider reverting. Currently, uploading to Picasa Web is a separate process from Google Drive. I could replicate this with my SkyDrive storage, placing photos in both locations without additional steps.”
“A larger Dropbox storage allocation (compared to its 2 GB limit versus SkyDrive’s 25 GB) would also be appealing, given its import functionality. However, my 14 GB of photos would exceed Dropbox’s capacity. In Ubuntu, I would employ a similar strategy with Ubuntu One, but its web interface lacks adequate gallery viewing capabilities.”
Picasa and the Pull of SkyDrive
Jer expressed, “Picasa remains the leading option. Numerous iPad applications integrate directly with it, and Android compatibility is seamless. Family members, regardless of location, can view family photos shortly after I synchronize folders/albums on my home PC. This process is remarkably straightforward and allows for controlled access, restricting viewing to authorized individuals.”
“Linking your Google+ account provides unlimited storage for 2048p images. If you exhaust your storage, you receive a notification but can still upload (a persistent bug). Google also offers generous options for purchasing additional storage. However, I dislike Google’s gradual phasing out of Picasa and its integration into Google+. Should Google implement significant changes, I will revert to using SkyDrive. Google, take note!”
“Dropbox has made several attempts to attract photo-sharing users, and I may explore their new services. I am also considering SmugMug for professional-quality photos, though it is less suitable for casual family sharing.”
A Hybrid Approach: Cloud and Personal Server
Shinigamibob utilizes a combination of cloud services and a personal server: “I import photos directly from my camera into Adobe Lightroom, where they are tagged, categorized, and stacked. Stacking is particularly useful for HDR images and panoramas. I perform most of my editing in Lightroom and then export selected photos to a shared Dropbox folder with close friends.”
“For broader distribution, I use Lightroom plugins to upload to Google+ and Flickr. For quick sharing, select photos are posted to Facebook, but these are always copies of those on Google+. The Lightroom plugins simplify keeping edits synchronized across all platforms, updating previously published photos with the latest changes.”
“However, the majority of my exports are directed to my home webserver, running Gallery3 (http://gallery.menalto.com/). This allows me to create specific albums and sharing sets, sending unique links to family members. Hosting the most private photos on my own server provides peace of mind, ensuring my data remains secure.”
“Single photos are typically shared via the public folder in my Dropbox. I simply drag and drop, copy the shortened URL, email it, and delete it after two weeks. Photos hosted on third-party services are generally more generic in nature.”
Further Exploration
For additional insights and techniques, please visit the original discussion thread here.