Our Digital Photography Blog
Ideas, resources and tips on digital photography: equipment, techniques, reviews, courses, etc.

Digital Camera Memory Cards



Digital cameras are a joy to use and own today – though many of their features remain unexplored by their owners. Technology is moving at break neck speed brining out something new every day. The common man most of the times finds it very difficult to cope and keep up with the pace and often compromises by absorbing only the minimum information required to handle the hi-tech gadgets they buy. However, while doing so they are unable to use these to their best advantage.

Speed

The speed with which your digital camera takes pictures often depends upon its memory; and the memory depends upon the digital camera memory cards you buy. For best results, you would need cards that have memory buffers where pictures can be temporarily transferred and stored so it does not slow down the shooting. The best cards would be those which offer a very high transfer speed.

Number of Cards

You would be better off with two or three medium sized memory cards are better than one very large capacity one. The reason for this is that when you want to delete a picture using a high-capacity memory card, you will have to wait quite sometime until the camera deletes and then re-configures the system. This can become inconvenient when you are shooting something of interest and time is precious. There would be little or no delay when you use medium or small capacity digital camera memory cards because they do not need to check too much before getting re-configured.

Are you wondering how many digital camera memory cards you should ideally carry on with you? Ideally two or three medium size cards would serve the purpose. However, if you are on an exceptional trip and anticipate a lot of action that need to be captured carry two more. Some professional photographers have a carry box of 10 such digital camera memory cards - so they would always be ready for that shot when it presents itself. On an average, three would be just fine.

Card Readers

When it comes to reviewing and downloading the best would be to ignore the data cables that come with the cameras and use digital camera memory cards readers. These are fast (almost instant replay) and you can delete, edit and review the photographs right there before you copy them to your PC or laptop.

Lastly, you need to know how to care for your digital camera memory cards so you can enjoy them for a very long time. Always keep them in their plastic cases when not in use so they are not damaged while rubbing with other items in your pocket or hand bag. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and protect them from humidity.