Make & keep
Actually restore a backed-up photo strip
Test retrieval instead of only checking that a folder exists.
A backup is useful when you can recover a readable file from it.
Choose a sample deliberately
Select an original scan, a catalogue record and a finished delivery copy. Retrieve them from the backup into a separate test folder. Open the images and compare their filenames and dimensions with the working versions. Do not overwrite the working collection while testing whether the backup can be read.
Write down the result
Record where you restored from, which files were checked and any missing material. Include the catalogue, not just portraits, in your backup plan. Repeat the test after changing storage arrangements. Preserve important originals and more than one recoverable digital copy rather than treating a successful single test as permanent protection.
Evidence: Preservation guidance
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- US National Archives — digitising family archivesPreservation guidance