Hi,
I do not think that storing files in a database is a good idea, even if you only have a small amount. Why don't you just store the path to where the image file is saved on your server. That way you will be able to display it just the same way as if it was saved directly in your database. When you do a DUMP (back up) you just need to save your files outside of the database as well. I am currently working on a database that has over 7000 jpgs with 7000 thumbnails and the Mysql Dump is only 3.5 mega. Off course the images take up a lot of space outside the database, but at least the database size stays low.
Just my own experience... Good luck.
I do not think that storing files in a database is a good idea, even if you only have a small amount. Why don't you just store the path to where the image file is saved on your server. That way you will be able to display it just the same way as if it was saved directly in your database. When you do a DUMP (back up) you just need to save your files outside of the database as well. I am currently working on a database that has over 7000 jpgs with 7000 thumbnails and the Mysql Dump is only 3.5 mega. Off course the images take up a lot of space outside the database, but at least the database size stays low.
Just my own experience... Good luck.