References to photos in iPhoto library fail after upgrading to iPhoto 08

Question

When I upgraded to iPhoto 08, I wasn't aware of the change that made the library a package. I have a database file that contains references to photos in the iPhoto library. (Some of) the references don't work anymore (presumably because the upgrading changed the location of the photos). Also, when adding a new photo, I cannot enter the library, since it is now a package (and adding a picture's reference must be from within the database's adding dialogue window; a reference cannot be added manually). Is there either a way to make the iPhoto library package contents permanently visible? Or is there another way to make the references work again?

Answer 1

APJMS
Welcome to the Apple Discussions.
The change was made to the format of the iPhoto library because many users were inadvertently corrupting their library by browsing through it with other software or making changes in it themselves. If you're willing to risk database corruption, you can restore the older functionality simply by right clicking on the iPhoto Library and choosing 'Show Package Contents'. Then simply make an alias to the folders you require and put that alias on the desktop or where ever you want it. Be aware though, that this is a hack and not supported by Apple.
Depending on the particular database package you use, drag and drop from either the iPhoto Window or a media browser (You can create a Media Browser using Automator (takes about 10 seconds) or use THIS) may work.
Also, for 10.5 users: If you use the extended Open or Attach dialogue (with Column View) you can scroll to the bottom of the Shortcuts and find the Media browser there. Select any pic you want from there.
Regards
TD