Backing Up on Location, Done Properly
Protecting images during a shoot, before files reach the studio.
Imogen Clarke
At a glance
- Dual card slots some cameras write to two cards at once
- Verification copies should be verified, not assumed
- Separation copies should travel separately
- Formatting cards should only be cleared after verified backups
Why it matters
Why it matters: Cards fail and bags get lost, and a shoot that cannot be repeated deserves more than one copy.
Best practice
- Use dual card recording where available
- Copy to two drives before leaving
- Verify copies before formatting cards
- Keep copies physically separate
- Log what was copied and when
Common pitfalls
Watch out for:
- Single copies overnight
- Formatting cards on location
- Both copies in one bag
- Copies assumed rather than verified
When to call in a specialist
Bottom line Bring in help when shoots cannot be repeated.
Where this comes from
- Capture One — Tethered capture documentation
- National Institute of Standards and Technology — Secure Hash Standard
The figures and practices above come from the sources listed.
Working on something like this?
We take on Photography & Product Visuals work for teams who want it done once, properly. Tell us what you are building and we will tell you honestly whether we are the right studio for it. Start a project.
Where to go next
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