During a project it may be necessary to transfer digital files via the internet between myself and my clients. There are a number of services that make this possible, the two that I recommend are Google Drive and Dropbox.  

Below I have composed a short guide to using both services to send files. To avoid dropouts/timeouts try to use a strong and stable internet connection where possible. (Click the any of the screenshots below to enlarge them.)

The following is just a basic guide to file sharing services , if you encounter any difficulties with the services I suggest searching for a more in-depth help guide. Try referring to guides and advice from Google or Dropbox on their own websites or if you are approaching me for my services just ask via email or phone and I will help you out as best I can. 

My personal preference is to use Google Drive as it integrates with any existing google account, meaning you get access to their email services (one of the most secure and reliable email providers in my experience) as well as Youtube, Google Calendar and more. Google Drive also has a maximum storage of 15GB for free, where as Dropbox can cap at 2-4GB for free dependant on your usage. 

Both services offer a desktop level integration, Dropbox particularly relies on it. This essentially means that the service makes a folder on your computer and any files in that folder are automatically uploaded to the service, it can be quite handy. I will not cover Desktop integration in this guide.  Both services offer "pro" level paid versions including expanded storage, if you are often sending large large files this can be a worthwhile investment. 

To use either service you will need an account with the respective provider, if you don't already have one signing up is really easy. 

Navigate to either Google's account creation page, located at https://accounts.google.com/signup?hl=en  or to the Dropbox home page www.dropbox.com and follow the account creation steps.  
 

Once you've created your account you're ready to upload a file.  If you're using Google drive select "New" button, located near the top left of the page. From there select the type of upload you wish to perform, you can upload single files or entire folder at once, or create a new folder to put existing Google Drive files into. 

If using Dropbox select the "New File Upload" icon from the top toolbar. Dropbox also allows multiple file uploads, you can also create a folder (using the new folder button in the toolbar) and rearrange your files that way.

To add files to a folder in either service just drag the files over the folder icon. 

Once your files/folders are uploaded and arranged you'll need to enable sharing on them, the easiest way to do this is just to share a link. 

If using Google Drive right click any file or folder and select "Get Shareable Link". 

If using Dropbox click "Share" then select "create link" and "copy link" 

Then you paste the link (most computers will let you paste when you right click) into an email and send it to snowflakecreative@icloud.com

I hope this guide proves useful to my clients and contacts. :) 

- Andy :)