iPhoto duplicates for Library

[csonni]

I can't stand the way iPhoto has to duplicate images to create its Library of images.  Does anyone know if iPhoto can create a Library from just a reference to a folder of images, or does it have to copy them all into it's Library.  Sure takes up a lot of space on my 40 gig Pismo drive.  It sure would be nice if it somehow could work off of "aliases."

[krissel]

I downloaded  this file,  which is supposed to help manage the iPhoto Library. Haven't used it yet (my OSX PB is not hooked up now) so I can't tell you what it will do but it claims to help manage the files.

[csonni]

Krissel, I downloaded this one too.  I suppose I should see all that it does.  I was thinking it just allows you to move your Library out of its place, but maybe it will use a Folder of images as its Library.

[csonni]

Krissel, I tried both Library Manger and Librarian.  When I choose one of my Folders with images in them, iPhoto shows none.  I suppose using another Library requires more than just images in a Folder.  Would that folder have to have the same structure as the default library (nestled folders, etc.)?  My images are most all in Photoshop file.  I really don't want them all changed into iPhoto's (Preview?) format.  What do you think?  Do I have to create another iPhoto Library and move it, and then just remove all my Folders of images off my drive?

[csonni]

I guess I should have taken a look into the Library folders- quite deep.  I see that there are thumbnails, originals!!, and the image itself.  Why in the world does iPhoto have to have the original separate from the image.  I understand the thumbnails, but why a separate image from the original?  With all this, how can I create a separate Library with the required structure as mentioned above, along with the "Data" file?  Once that Library is created, than I can used Library Manager to point iPhoto to that particular Library.

[krissel]

I've been driven nuts with the structure of iPhoto's file system. I usually don't load pics into it when first transfering to the machine. I usually create a folder and just drag the pics to copy to the folder, then put it wherever. The pics wanted for  use for a slide show or other use are then imported for that purpose only.

Since I'm using OS 9 at home, I use iViewMultimedia for my own picture filing. It's my Dad who is using iPhoto and I am exposed to it through him.

Will be visiting the folks tmrw so will take another look.

[kps]

iPhoto was created to be everything to everyone in the consumer digital image storage, enhancement, publishing and viewing area.

Consequently, there are some quirks that appear strange. The "Originals" are saved images as they were when first downloaded. If you start manipulating your imported images, iPhoto will save and store the "original" in case you make a mistake or change your mind later. Use Edit - "Revert to Original" menu item.

iPhoto is great for organizing albums, making slide shows and making books...if that's your taste...maybe even for burning, getting Kodak prints, publishing to .Mac, etc.

Personally, I use Image Capture to download from camera and place the images in a folder. I then duplicate the folder and store/backup the originals.

I work on the copies in Photoshop and save the modified images before I import the folder or just a select few of the images to iPhoto.