Memory cards, memory cards, memory cards… if only I had remembered the memory cards.
I just returned from a trip to Hawaii where I learned a few lessons about digital cameras… the hard way.
First, memory cards. I did remember to place one in my digital camera prior to flying 5,000 miles from my house. However, that’s all I brought—-one. Granted it was a 4GB memory card that could accommodate more 1000 images on my particular digital camera, but here’s the rub: Not all stores in Hawaii are equipped with photo printing kiosks that can read cards with more than 1000 recorded images. More than a few machines rejected my photo-filled memory card because they simply didn’t have the capacity to post the images and allow me to edit them.
Lesson learned: Don’t buy memory cards that hold a ton of photos.
That’s my opinion, anyway. Some people insist on getting memory cards with a lot of room, since it allows them to take more photos. Plus, when you are on vacation you don’t have to worry about purchasing another card on the road or concern yourself with losing multiple cards. Duly noted. However, consider that having one card is essentially placing all of your eggs (in this case, all of your precious vacation memories) in one basket (in this case, a single source).
If you have the ability to do so, I would suggest that you transfer your photos from your camera to your computer or online account often during your vacation, so they will be stored safely. Otherwise, purchase two memory cards and swap them out midway through your trip, so that your images are spread out. This helps if you run into a situation like I did. Also, you avoid having a heart attack if you lose the one and only card that contains your treasured vacation shots.
Finally, I would get a 4GB memory card at most. Personally, I would stick with a 2GB card, which will allow you to store “only” a few hundred photos. This way you aren’t tempted to record a huge number of shots that may potentially never make it off your camera.
How do you get your digital camera vacation ready?
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