Monday, August 3, 2009

Protect Your Photos

The digital revolution in photography has created a double-edged sword. On one hand, we have the freedom to photograph any whim that we find interesting, with the idea that "if I don't like it I can delete it". Most people don't realize the task they are asking those devices to preform. When you delete a photo in the camera, you are basically removing a chunk of data from the memory card. When the next photo comes along to fill that spot it many be a larger or smaller file... if it is larger, the file will be chopped up and the memory becomes fragmented. This is a problem for your desktop computer, imagine the strain you add to the processor that is working in that camera. Think of a row of small cars parked in a line bumper to bumper. Take one of those cars out of the middle and try to fit in a '72 Cadillac... yep you are going to have to unbolt the front end and engine to be able to make it fit. Now take all those left over parts and scatter them down the row till they are tucked in nice and neat, everything is fine till you need to drive it home. I know it seems like the camera should be able to handle it, and it does until it doesn't and then the best you can hope for is some luck and a really good recovery program. It is best to think about your digital media like you did film, once you click the shutter that image is set in line until it is developed (loaded into your computer).

Tips for giving your data the best chance for survival:
1. Never delete photos in camera (load on to your computer to edit).
2. Load images on to your computer and back up files before returning the card to service.
3. When the images have been loaded and backed up, format the card in your camera.
4. When handling cards, be sure to avoid touching the contacts.
5. Store cards in a case when not in the camera.
6. Lastly, print your images. It may not seem like it but digital images can disappear in a blink of an eye. Computers crash every day and given enough time you will suffer from a failure in equipment.