Tech Organization: Tips for Yearbook Advisers

Managing cameras can be a daunting task. Amid mandatory professional development, countless emails and prepping for the new yearbook, setting up your room for your staff can be a challenge. Keeping your technology safe and secure is a top priority when considering the setup of your space. Here are some tips and tricks to get your room ready for the new year.

SD Cards

SD cards are the holy grail of yearbook, especially when a student loses one at a football game or accidentally leaves theirs at home. Depending on the needs of your staff, you will want to consider how you want your SD cards to be stored. If you choose to have your students keep their SD cards in your room or want storage for extras, a toolbox is a great way to keep your cards organized. Keeping each SD card in a clear protector inside the toolbox prevents damage. You can use an Expo marker or a label maker to identify what goes in each drawer. You can also utilize the remaining drawers to hold SD card readers, lens caps, batteries, and other useful items.

 

Camera Storage

An adviser’s biggest fear is losing or breaking expensive cameras. The best way to prevent accidents or lost equipment is secure storage. Using a system like these lockers work well in classrooms. Most camera bags fit into these lockers which provides extra cushion. Placing dry-erase labels on the lockers allows your staff to sign cameras in and out without hassle. Small locks can also provide extra security when your room is not in use.

 

 

 

 

Tripods and Light Fixtures

No one wants to walk through a forest of tripods, especially in a busy yearbook lab. Tripods and light poles take up a lot of space which can lead to trips and broken equipment. Having a safe way to store these items will make your classroom spacious. A great way to house tripods and light fixtures is using stackable shoe racks. Tripods and other awkward equipment can rest on these racks and be flush against the wall, so they are out of the way while still being easy to access by your staff.

 

Charging Stations

“The battery is dead” is a phrase no adviser wants to hear. Before your photographers turn in their cameras you want to ensure the battery is charged for the next user. Creating a charging station close to your camera equipment is key to maximizing your space. By using a few power strips and a small desk/table, you can create a charging station for your camera batteries or any equipment that needs an outlet. Be sure to take the batteries off the charger once they are full!

 

 

 

Miscellaneous Cords

As tempting as it is to throw random cords in a drawer, organizing and sifting through your cords is one of those necessary tasks that will de-clutter your space. Identify your cords and use storage bins to categorize them. This is a great activity for your editors if you have them come in over the summer. Use clear tubs and label them with the cord type. You never know when a staff member needs a micro-USB or an iPhone charger.

 

 

 

Planning for technology is a great conversation to have with your upcoming editors. Talking with your team about this setup encourages buy-in and pushes your leadership to feel in charge of the new system. Be sure to establish expectations for tech organization and relay the importance of your systems at the beginning of the year. This will prevent unnecessary headaches the first week of school. Happy organizing!