How should I organize a reference library in Hive?

A folder should answer where this belongs. Project, client, shoot, or asset. If you cannot decide between two folders, the difference probably belongs in a tag.

Tags work best in small families with a prefix you can scan.

If you keep filtering for the same thing, save it. A Smart Folder like this project with stage:shortlist updates itself as you tag.

When importing, Auto Save brings everything in and leaves sorting for later. Add Details sets folders, tags, stars, and notes for the batch right away.

Each guide below includes a folder and tag setup you can copy: photography, graphic design, illustration, interiors, architecture, and product design.