The Tribune

If you are a designer working behind a computer, there will always be the need for a large storage bin to place bits and pieces of edited and unedited photos plus data in. The need for large storage can never be evaded. Super high resolution files that are typical of graphic design can consume pretty large amounts of data. Moreover, you may have started arranging a portfolio of records, and suddenly realise that more storage space is required.

Fortunately, it is 2021, and you will have heard about cloud storage options for photos. The responsibility of cloud services is to store information on a remote computer known as a cloud server, rather than locally. This means that you are not taking up storage space on any particular physical device.

There are many devices out there to prevent you from worrying about storage limitations, hard drive failure or whatever contributes to losing files. However, let us take a closer look at iCloud.

What is iCloud?

iCloud is one of the most misunderstood features of the iPhone family. Many see the term pop up but are clueless as to what it means. Simply put, the purpose of iCloud is to store data and important information such as photos, videos, documents and text messages on Apple’s remote servers (as opposed to your iPhone or iPad). This way, all of your information is backed up at a secure location and synchronised between all of your devices.

Who needs iCloud?

Anyone who has a high volume of information or photos can benefit from iCloud.

Is iCloud really a necessity?

Investing in any form of storage plan is smart if your work volume is heavy. Losing important documents worked on for months is not a happy feeling. This is why information backed up in the cloud is beneficial. Photo Stream is a package supplied with the basic iCloud service, which allows users to store their most recent 1,000 photos on the iCloud servers for up to 30 days free of charge.

How to use iCloud?

When iCloud is set up you would automatically receive 5GB (gigabytes) of free storage across all devices, and it is easy to add more at any time. This means iCloud securely stores your photos, videos, documents, music, or apps and updates them across all devices. This allows information to be backed up at a secure location and synchronised, which enables you to start work on one device and continue on another. Meaning that when you crop or enhance a photo from your iPhone, you will see the changes when you access your library from your Mac.

Your photos and videos are organised into years, months, days and all photos. All of your memories and people are updated universally, and are easy to locate at any time. With iCloud you can easily share everything with friends and family. Moreover, if you ever lose your Apple device, all information (ranging from contacts to photos) that were saved to iCloud can be retrieved.

This simple procedure is done from iCloud.com by signing in with your Apple ID to automatically restore all data on your new Apple device. Depending on your Internet speed, the time it takes for you to see your photos and videos on all of your devices and iCloud.com might vary.

Can anyone see what’s on my iCloud?

If someone knew your Apple ID or your iCloud username/password, they may be able to access your information. Some security and privacy measures include determining what information you want to be accessible from iCloud, or changing the password to your iCloud account.

Apple has continued to add features to iCloud, resulting in a really robust and reliable service. It also works quietly in the background, and if you have allowed iCloud to do its thing (in many cases it operates in a default setting) you will simply find that documents are very secure.

There are one or two disadvantages if you wish to use iCloud, such as it being dependent on an Internet connection. There are small additional costs for upgrading, but the benefits certainly outweigh the disadvantages. There are lots of storage options out there, so always choose the one that works best for you. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT COLUMNIST: Deidre M Bastian is a professionally-trained graphic designer/brand marketing analyst, author and certified life coach with qualifications of B. Sc and M.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of The Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.