Instructions to Use Digital Camera Memory Cards

by Angela Tague
Format new digital camera cards before taking pictures.

Format new digital camera cards before taking pictures.

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If you are making the transition to digital photography, there are a few new accessories to include in your camera bag, including digital memory cards. After choosing a digital camera and installing the batteries, learn how to select, insert, prepare and remove a digital memory card from the camera. Unlike a roll of film, digital memory cards require preparation before snapping any photos. Since you reuse memory cards and they don't require chemical processing at a photo lab, the digital media becomes more cost-effective than rolls of film over time.

Step 1

Power off the camera. Choose a compatible memory card for your camera. Determine whether your camera uses secure digital (SD), compact flash (CF), memory sticks, multi-media cards or XD cards. Only one type works with your camera. Check the camera manual or ask the camera sales associate what card type you need.

Step 2

Insert the memory card into the camera by locating the memory card slot on the bottom or side of the camera body. Open the memory card door by using an "Eject" button or sliding the panel to the side. Insert the memory card as advised by the icon on the inside of the door. Close the door and turn the camera on.

Step 3

Press your camera's "Menu" button, select "Tools," and find the "Format" feature. Select "Format" and press "OK" or "Set" to format the memory card. Press the shutter button to exit "Menu" mode.

Step 4

Turn the camera off and remove the memory card by sliding the memory card door open or by pressing the "Eject" button. Press the end of the memory card into the camera slightly until it clicks and ejects from the camera.

Tip

  • You can transfer images stored on your memory card to a computer several ways. Insert the card into a card reader attached to your computer, slide the card into a corresponding memory card slot on your computer or connect your digital camera to a computer with a USB cable.

Warning

  • Memory cards only fit into a digital camera one way. Trying to force a card into the camera slot can damage the card and your camera. Look for icons on the camera or a pictorial guide in your camera's user manual for assistance when inserting your memory card.

About the Author

Angela Tague writes SEO web marketing content for major brands including Bounty, The Nest, Lowe's Home Improvement and Hidden Valley. She also provides feature content to newspapers and writes health and beauty blogs for Daily Glow, Everyday Health and Walgreens. Tague graduated from the University of Iowa with a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communications in 1999.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images