alt Hacker NewsI take a photo of almost any package. I have a folder with labels from years ago. I admit that if the manufacturers of X change the ingredients without changing the design/layout, I wouldn't notice. So I might have to set up a system where I remind myself to check everything once every few months to compare it to the photos I have. But at least the photos don't take up any space. I used to have a drawer with packaging and receipts, too, but it was unmanagable.
For jars I use regular jars for most things. Regular jars of food you'd buy in the supermarket. They're basically free. I just have to soak them and remove the original label. For some things I like tall jars, the kind tomato sauce comes in. Doesn't really matter, except they fill certain shelves of a specific height better.
Photos are an interesting idea. I'm one of the freaks who does not carry their phone on their person at all times, so it would be less convenient for me (until I join the 20th C at least), although more convenient for the rest of the household... So we'll see. :)
One of the things that I really appreciate about the Weck and Ball jars are their uniformity. You can get different lids for different purposes (air-tight, water-tight, with straw-hole, flexible, etc). The lids are cross-compatible for most jar shapes/sizes within the brand, but not cross-brand of course. This is OK because we use them for very different purposes, usually. They also stack well, the lids can be reused indefinitely and put through the dishwasher without worrying about rust or deformation, can be easily replaced if lost or damaged, etc etc. They're also more durable than the single-use-intended retail packaging jars. I'm sure this sounds a bit silly, but it does honestly make a difference, for my brain at least!
Of course they are not free, and I never would have made the change if it wasn't required for canning foods from the garden. But after making the switch, I've always been happier for it. YMMV!