Inserting and formatting memory cards

A memory card is where many cameras store photographs. The two important habits are simple: never force a card into the slot, and never format a card until you are certain anything you want has been copied somewhere safe.

Use the correct card

Check the camera manual for the card types and capacities it supports. SD cards are common, but some cameras use CFexpress, XQD, microSD or other formats. A card that physically resembles another type is not automatically compatible.

Insert it gently

Switch the camera off, open the card door and look at the small diagram beside the slot. Hold the card in that orientation and press it in gently until it seats or clicks. If it needs force, stop and check the direction.

What formatting means

Formatting prepares the card for the camera and normally removes access to the photographs already on it. Treat it as destructive. Copy anything important first and check the copy before formatting.

Where to format

For routine camera use, formatting the card in the camera that will use it is a sensible default because the camera creates the file system and folders it expects. It is not true that a card must never be formatted on a computer, but doing so can create a format the camera does not support.

During use

Do not remove the card while the camera is writing to it. If you see a card-access light, wait for it to finish. If the camera reports a card error, stop before repeatedly writing more data to a card that may be failing.

Try it for yourself

The practical puts this lesson into use. You do not need to complete it perfectly. The point is to notice what your camera does and understand why.