Media has changed considerably in the last century. It seems just as one technology reaches its peak; another starts to take its place. Unfortunately, that means a lot of memories stay trapped on obsolete technologies, like VHS tapes. Digitizing media means those memories remain intact and accessible.
Worry-Free
Analog storage methods like VHS require precise environmental control or they degrade over time. Most of the closets where those boxes live are not that controlled. To compound this, many boxes of VHS tapes haven’t been examined in a decade, so there’s a possibility the damage could be worse.
There are also natural disasters to consider on top of storage lifespan. Basements flood, houses burn, and tornados happen. All these dramatically shorten the lifespan of analog storage, if not destroying it outright. By digitizing media, it prevents all of this from being a concern since storage is in the cloud.
Space Considerations
With VHS in boxes, mixtapes spread about, and other analog media in the picture, it can all take up a lot of space. Even a closet should be used for its original purpose occasionally, so those boxes are in the way. Digitizing media makes it safe to reclaim the space, even if the VHS tapes don’t leave the house.
Sharing
These days, people share more than ever. Even within families, it’s easy to send baby’s first walks to grandparents across the country. However, the older media really isn’t compatible. Digitizing media makes it available, whether for family or public sharing easier. This potentially brings families together over old foibles and fond reminisces.
Family History
Family is essential, and a family genealogist knows it. They collect family memories and stories to go with their records. Digitizing media makes it easier to pass the recordings around and store them. As a bonus, the next generation of the family doesn’t have to learn how to work a VCR, which might discourage them. Digital transference is the future.
Watch Parties
Sometimes, it’s time to take a stroll down memory lane. With VHS, that involves digging out an equally dusty VCR, figuring out how to hook it up, and hoping it still works. With digital media, it’s all cloud accessible. Digitizing media even means putting it on memory sticks, which are easily used with smart TVs.
Artistic
Since digitizing media makes it more accessible, many people turn their creative genius loose with the new material. Collages, scrapbooks, and digital compilations open once the recordings are no longer physical. With each media addition, the creative liberation increases and the more those memories show through.
Overall Ease
Realistically, analog media is bulky. It requires specialized equipment, even if it’s only a generation apart. As technology gets further away from what was, digitizing media becomes harder. Before too long, it won’t even be a possibility since the tapes degrade over time. It’s best to do the update now, and take advantage of the convenience, rather than risk the potential disaster of waiting.
