Family Trees and Organizing Tips with Karin Dean
R: So how do we narrow
the focus?
K: Figure out where you fall on the chart and where the recipient of the album falls. Then you can focus on the people you’ll be covering in your album.
R: Now we have an idea of which family members we would like to include, what’s next?
K: Keep the family tree chart in front of you and organize your photos to that chart, this breaks your job into manageable pieces. Sort the photos into two piles – father’s side and mother’s side. Then take each pile and sort further. While doing this, if necessary, take notes of things to do—finish getting photos identified/dated, get more photos of Grandpa B, etc. When you have it narrowed to a pile for each person or group then put that pile in its own file. You can also include any memorabilia in the appropriate files.
R: What do we do with photos that include more than one generation?
K: Create a “rule of thumb” to help decide and write down the rule. Possibilities: Make copies and put in each person’s section; file with oldest or youngest generation. If making copies keep a note in each file and another note on the photo to tell you where to re-file the pictures.
R: Should you include siblings of direct lineage?
K: Consider how many pictures you have and how close the family ties are. Also, think about what it adds to the story you are telling.
R: How do you recommend storing all this information while working on it?
K: Photo-safe of course! You will need a section for each family member. Highsmith and Cropper Hopper each have systems for this purpose. You can also use page protectors or envelopes, one or more per section you are planning, and file them in a 3-ring binder or hanging folders or accordion files. Be sure photos don’t rub against each other and protect the fragile edges.
R: What size album seems to work the best?
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