Keep Your Digital Memory Sharp
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Memory Cards
I would like to share a few hints and tips concerning digital camera memory cards, types, sizes and the care of them. The memory card is the removable part of the camera's brain that stores the pictures. Without one the camera would not operate as intended.
There are many types and sizes of memory cards available. Unlike 35mm film memory cards, they differ in size and are not interchangeable. Always consult your camera owner's manual to identify the correct memory card requirements.
Commonly, memory cards are identified by an insignia that identifies the card format. The most common format insignias are:
With 35mm film you have a set number of exposures. With memory cards, the number of exposures or images that can be stored are based on storage capability and camera resolution.
You can determine your camera's storage capacity or number of images a memory card of a given capacity may store. Simply take the memory capacity of the card and divide that number by the average image file size of your camera. For example, if you have a 1 Gigabyte card and an average file size of 3.04 Megabytes, you will be able to store approximately 336 images on that card. If you're shooting in an uncompressed mode such as RAW, the number of images would be somewhere around 67 images. Most cameras have a 5 to 1 compression ratio. Most cameras that require a memory card have a table in the owner's manual showing the number of images per card based on compression mode. Remember when purchasing a memory card that the higher the capacity the more expensive it is.
There are many types and sizes of memory cards available. Unlike 35mm film memory cards, they differ in size and are not interchangeable. Always consult your camera owner's manual to identify the correct memory card requirements.
Commonly, memory cards are identified by an insignia that identifies the card format. The most common format insignias are:
Compact Flash(CF)
MultiMedia Card(MMC)
Memory Stick (MS)
Secure Digital (SD)
Smart Media (SM)
With 35mm film you have a set number of exposures. With memory cards, the number of exposures or images that can be stored are based on storage capability and camera resolution.
You can determine your camera's storage capacity or number of images a memory card of a given capacity may store. Simply take the memory capacity of the card and divide that number by the average image file size of your camera. For example, if you have a 1 Gigabyte card and an average file size of 3.04 Megabytes, you will be able to store approximately 336 images on that card. If you're shooting in an uncompressed mode such as RAW, the number of images would be somewhere around 67 images. Most cameras have a 5 to 1 compression ratio. Most cameras that require a memory card have a table in the owner's manual showing the number of images per card based on compression mode. Remember when purchasing a memory card that the higher the capacity the more expensive it is.
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Some other suggestions and tips when purchasing and caring for your memory card.
One of the biggest causes of memory card failure is dirt, dust and carbon build up on the terminal contacts inside the camera slot. One way to keep your memory card slot clean is by using a slot cleaner. Slot cleaners are available at most camera stores and online. It is recommended that you clean the memory card slot during regular camera cleanings and maintenance depending on use.
You should carry at least two memory cards with you. The pros use anywhere from 5 to 6 and even more. This is great if you're shooting a lot of pictures. For most of us two is adequate. This is especially good on long vacations where you are prone to take more pictures than usual.
Always turn your camera off before removing the memory card.
Memory cards are pretty durable; however, keep them away from extreme temperatures and strong magnetic fields.
To avoid damage to your card or camera, never remove the card while the camera is writing to it.
To decrease your download time and save battery life, transfer your photos to your laptop or PC using a card reader.
Another thing to think about is card speed. Always purchase a card of equal or greater speed than your camera's transfer speed. (See your manual.) Photos are transferred at the lower of the camera and card speeds.
Over the years memory card technology has added to their life. Still they need to be replaced every now and then. This is becoming easer due to the decreasing price of memory cards.
To avoid possible image loss and card errors, make sure your batteries are never fully depleted before recharging or replacing them.
During continuous shooting mode remember the camera will need more time to write the images to the card so don't power down too soon. Give the camera enough time to complete the data transfer.
I hope you find these suggestions and tips useful when purchasing and caring for your digital camera memory card. Remember a little care and preventive maintenance can be far less aggravating and less expensive than the cure.
One of the biggest causes of memory card failure is dirt, dust and carbon build up on the terminal contacts inside the camera slot. One way to keep your memory card slot clean is by using a slot cleaner. Slot cleaners are available at most camera stores and online. It is recommended that you clean the memory card slot during regular camera cleanings and maintenance depending on use.
You should carry at least two memory cards with you. The pros use anywhere from 5 to 6 and even more. This is great if you're shooting a lot of pictures. For most of us two is adequate. This is especially good on long vacations where you are prone to take more pictures than usual.
Always turn your camera off before removing the memory card.
Memory cards are pretty durable; however, keep them away from extreme temperatures and strong magnetic fields.
To avoid damage to your card or camera, never remove the card while the camera is writing to it.
To decrease your download time and save battery life, transfer your photos to your laptop or PC using a card reader.
Another thing to think about is card speed. Always purchase a card of equal or greater speed than your camera's transfer speed. (See your manual.) Photos are transferred at the lower of the camera and card speeds.
Over the years memory card technology has added to their life. Still they need to be replaced every now and then. This is becoming easer due to the decreasing price of memory cards.
To avoid possible image loss and card errors, make sure your batteries are never fully depleted before recharging or replacing them.
During continuous shooting mode remember the camera will need more time to write the images to the card so don't power down too soon. Give the camera enough time to complete the data transfer.
I hope you find these suggestions and tips useful when purchasing and caring for your digital camera memory card. Remember a little care and preventive maintenance can be far less aggravating and less expensive than the cure.
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Share Your Comments
As always, your feedback is much appreciated!
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Mia-Mia
Aug 24, 2011 @ 7:18 pm | delete
- Hi Soulshine, thanks for more photo info.
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coastingalong
Jun 30, 2008 @ 9:55 am | delete
- Your lens has been added to the MISSISSIPPI-THE MAGNOLIA STATE Group. I enjoyed looking thru all your photographs as well as the insight you give here on your lens.
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Janet21
Jun 17, 2008 @ 10:12 pm | delete
- Welcome to the Everything Photography Group!
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naturegirl7 May 21, 2008 @ 9:34 pm | delete
- Great basics for any digital camera user. I love your photographs, especially the scenes. Thanks for the wonderful comment about Protecting LA Flora & Fauna. 5*'s and a favorite
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