The “content” of the Media Object element is not the object itself but merely information about the object. The external file that contains the object is named by the xlink:href attribute.

== Media Objects in Gramps are not the actual Media Files ==

There are exceptions. The creation and restoring of backup archives includes the option to include file copies of Media objects up to 1 megabyte in size. And some Media related addons recognize paths with internet URLs and have the option to automatically download and shelve copies somewhere on local storage devices. Gramps also manages thumbnails and downloaded map tiles in the [[Gramps_{{man version}}_Wiki_Manual_-_User_Directory|User Directory]].

[[File:Broken_Media_Path.png|thumb|right|283px|The Media Object Editor with an invalid file path.]]However, the majority of the tasks managing of Media Objects must be performed outside of Gramps. You can just toss objects into a directory and link to them. But this will contrive a disorganized mess that will quickly become a maintenance nightmare. If the files have to be reorganized, Gramps will lose track of those files until you correct the paths. In the meantime the links will have a 'broken' indicator.

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== Select an Organizational System ==

There are groups of genealogist who share organizational system ideas for genealogical resources. And many feel most comfortable extending the metaphor for those systems for their digital resources too. So if their home library is organized with color-coding, labeling patterns and file boxes; they try to replicate the system with their digital resources too.