Frequently Asked Questions

What is StudioMemory?

StudioMemory is a private digital archive app built specifically for artists, creators, and makers. It allows you to maintain and manage a permanent collection of your creative works on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Why is StudioMemory different from Photos, Notes, or spreadsheets?

StudioMemory integrates photos, unique work IDs, status tracking, search tools, printable PDF portfolios, QR code labels, and full archive exports into a single system designed for creative legacy management.

Does the app collect my personal information?

No. StudioMemory collects no personal data, runs no ads, and does not require an account. Your data remains completely private, stored safely on your local devices or your private iCloud database.

Is there a Mac-only or iPad-only version?

No. StudioMemory uses a single Universal Subscription model. One subscription covers your personal iPhone, iPad, and Mac natively, allowing you to move between devices seamlessly.

Can I use StudioMemory without an internet connection?

Yes. StudioMemory stores data locally and works entirely offline. An internet connection is only required if you choose to use iCloud Sync or need to restore your paid subscription.

How do I add a new work?

• Mac: Press Command + N or select File > New Work.
• iPhone & iPad: Tap the + (Plus) icon at the top of the collection browser.

How do I import my existing collection or photos?

• Photos: On iPhone and iPad, add photos directly via your camera, photos library, or files app. On Mac, you can select files or simply drag and drop images directly from your library, Finder, or Desktop.
• Other Apps: Direct database import from competing archive systems is not currently supported. Works must be added using the standard photo and detail entry tools.

Can I change a work's details after the work has been added?

Yes. Titles, photos, notes, status details, and favorite selection can be edited at any time.

How many photos can I add per work?

You can include up to 6 photos per work. The first photo in your gallery automatically serves as the primary thumbnail inside the main collection browser. You can reorder the photos in each gallery.

What happens when I move a work to the Trash?

The 30-Day Rule: StudioMemory stores items moved to the Trash for 30 days before they are automatically and permanently deleted.

Can I use the app without iCloud?

Yes. StudioMemory is fully functional with local data storage only. iCloud is completely optional and is only required if you want your collection to automatically sync across your Apple devices.

Is my collection backed up automatically?

If you have iCloud Sync turned on, your collection is stored and backed up in your personal iCloud database. You can also manually generate Full Archive exports at any time for offline backup security.

Will my photos count against my iCloud storage?

Yes. Because your data is stored securely in your own private iCloud database, any synced works and photos count directly against your Apple iCloud storage allocation.

What happens if I get a new iPhone, iPad, or Mac?

• With iCloud Sync: Your collection will instantly sync down to your new device as soon as you open the app, provided you are logged into the same Apple ID.
• Without iCloud Sync: You can securely transfer your database by exporting a Full Archive on your old device and using the restore tool on your new one.

What happens if I delete the app?

⚠️ Data Warning: Deleting the app from a device removes all locally stored data from that device. If iCloud Sync is off and you do not have a recently exported Full Archive file, your data will be permanently lost. If iCloud sync is on, your records remain in iCloud.

Does StudioMemory compress my photos?

StudioMemory optimizes photos to improve performance and reduce data storage overhead. A Settings option lets photos taken directly inside StudioMemory also save to your device's photo library in their full, original resolution.

What file formats does the export feature use?

StudioMemory prioritizes data portability using industry-standard formats:

• Full Archive: A compressed Zip file containing your raw text details (in JSON format) and full-size photos (in JPEG format).
• Portfolios: Clean, shareable PDF documents containing photos and work details.
• Labels: Physical roll labels featuring titles and scannable QR codes.

Can I export my collection if I stop using StudioMemory?

Yes. Your data always belongs to you. You can export your full archive at any time, even if your paid subscription has expired.

Can I print labels with QR codes?

Yes. Roll labels can be customized in the Settings menu to toggle the display of a work's title and unique scannable QR code before printing.

What are the limits of the Free vs. Paid subscriptions?

• Free Subscription: A maximum of 30 works across all your personal Apple devices.
• Paid Subscription: A maximum of 2,500 works across all your personal Apple devices.

What happens if my paid subscription expires or is canceled?

Your existing archive remains fully accessible. If your paid subscription expires, you can continue to use StudioMemory to view, search, manage, and export your current collection. The only restriction is that you will not be able to add new works until the paid subscription is renewed.

Does StudioMemory support Apple Family Sharing?

Apple Family Sharing support is not available at this time.

How do I contact technical support?

You can contact support by email at support@studiomemoryapp.com.

How can I help technical support diagnose an issue?

If you run into an uncommon technical issue, you can generate a diagnostics log file by navigating to Settings > Diagnostic Reports and sharing it with the support team.

Why won't the camera open when trying to take a photo?

This is typically caused by restricted system permissions. On iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera (or Settings > Apps > StudioMemory) and switch on Camera access for StudioMemory. On Mac, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera.