Original and edited photo copies should be visibly separate. An attractive crop is useful, but it should not replace the only complete capture.
A practical way to begin
Keep originals in a folder that is not used for everyday editing.
Create working copies before cropping, restoring color or adding text.
Use clear version labels that explain the change rather than vague names such as final-final.
Store an editing note when a change could affect how the image is interpreted.
For example
A restored portrait can be named as an edited copy while the full scan, including borders and marks, remains in the originals folder.
What to avoid
Avoid presenting generated or reconstructed details as original photographic evidence. Preserve the unaltered version alongside any restoration.
Should I keep the original material?
Yes. Keep an untouched source and work with copies. A finished album, transcript or edited video serves a different purpose from the original material. Check that your saved copies open, and keep important context such as names and dates alongside them.
Related family guides
A personal keepsake, if it fits your plans
If you decide to turn a selection of family photos or videos into a physical keepsake, you can explore Forever Orb. Keep the original files and a separate backup; a display gift is not your archive.
