uploading multiple pictures into access

[dj rivum]

Hi there
im trying to build a database that stores a large number of photos and would like some suggestions on how i can upload multiple photos (20+) at one time without uploading each one individualy, preferably through a form.

To outline the problem, each member of the team has a camera that they take to jobs, when they return i want them to be able to open a new form, enter the job number (the primary key) onto the form and then somehow drag and drop the pictures from the camera onto the form to upload them.

Is this possible through Access? is this the best way of uploading multiple photos easily? and how do i build this?

Thanks in advance
MJ

 

[The_Doc_Man]

1. Search this forum for "displaying pictures" "loading images" and variants thereof to see how this is best done on a form. Also look up Image Control in Access Help.

2. To auto-load a bunch of images, you will need to write some VBA code that uses the FileFind object (or is it FindFile? I always get confused on that). Let's say (for sake of argument) your cameras translate to .JPG files. You can define (by convention) where the files would be dropped for initial import. The findfile can be told to look for all JPG files in that area. The result of a successful findfile is that the findfile object's .FoundFiles collection becomes populated with ... well... found files.

Your VBA code should be triggered from a form (and there is a setting in the button wizard for RunCode). Have it do the findfile operation, then step through the collection of found files to process them one at a time (but of course, still automatically). You will probably have to open a recordset to a list of pictures. Use the form to supply data other than the file name and don't attempt to actually store the form data outright. I.e. there can be a recordset if you want, describing the parent project/job data, but use this to define a single record. Let your VBA loop store the picture records.

Actions that are possible within VBA include copying the file to a fixed directory and renaming the file in some orderly way. I would advise you to search Access Help and this forum on File Actions, FileCopy, NameAs, etc.

I strongly advise that you NOT define the images to be embedded in the DB. Let them be linked. (Prevents DB bloat.) Set aside a folder/subfolder for the picture holder.

 

[dj rivum]

many thanks for this!