Make an image catalog using an automated task (Photoshop CS/CS2/CS3)

Do you have a lot of images stored on your computer or CDs that you’re constantly sifting through to find what you want? If so, you should take advantage of Adobe Photoshop’s ability to create contact sheets. Basically, this feature allows you to print out thumbnails of all your image files stored in a folder, including images in subfolders. Even more importantly, you can print the filename along with the thumbnail. Then, when you want a certain image, just glance through your thumbnail printouts, find the image you want, and then access it on your computer.

To make a contact sheet, choose File > Automate > Contact Sheet II. In the Contact Sheet II dialog box, select the folder containing your images from the Source Images section. Then, adjust the document settings for your needs and enter how you want your thumbnails to be laid out. Finally, select the Use Filename As Caption check box and choose a Font and Font Size. Click OK and let Photoshop go to work creating your contact sheet.

If you use CS4, the Contact Sheet feature is not part of the standard installation, but the plug-in is available on the Goodies and Extras CD that came with your software.