Use Your Digital Camera to Take Inventory

Planning for a disaster seems almost pessimistic to some, but in the long run, planning for the worst can save you. I talk about backup of your important digital data all the time, and this week's tip takes the term backup a little closer to home.

One great, practical use of your digital camera is to take inventory of your personal belongings. Use your camera to photograph your heir loom china, your classic car, your stereo and TV equipment, your video collection, appliances, and furniture. Because you don't have to worry about film, take pictures of anything and everything of value to you in and around your home.

While taking inventory, keep these tips in mind:

* Enable the date stamp feature of your camera so that a date and/or time stamp is placed directly on the photo.

* Use your flash and have plenty of light on your subject.

* Try to take the pictures first in their natural storage place (to prove it was in your home).

* If the item has unique or distinguishing features, take it out of its storage place and take close-ups.

After you are through taking the pictures, transfer the photos to your hard drive and then burn at least two CD's of the entire inventory. Keep one CD on hand and put at least one in a fire proof safe or safe deposit box. Also remember to update this CD from time-to-time as you acquire new valuables.

If you want to go all out with the inventory idea, you could use your word processor and a table format to insert the photos and then write a description and estimated value of each item. Again, burn this document on to your CD with the original pictures for safe keeping.

As is almost always the case, if you have a need, there is probably a software program to help fill that need. Check out these wonderful shareware programs that makes your home inventory easy to manage (including photos). All of these programs are free to try and cost no more than $30.

• My Stuff
• Frostbow Home Inventory
• Asset Management 2004 Home Edition