Corrupt memory cards have been damaged in some way, normally by human error, resulting in files that are not accessible. Even though there are image recovery applications available, it’s always better to keep these tips in mind when shooting to avoid losing data. These are not hard and fast rules, but it could be a guideline to preventing corruption:
* Don’t turn your camera off before it’s completely written an image to the memory card.
* Don’t remove the memory card from the camera while it’s writing an image to the card.
* Eject the card from your computer before removing it (right-click on the drive and click on eject).
* Always format the memory card before shooting, don’t just delete old files, use the camera’s format command.
* Use your camera to format the card instead of using the computer to do it.
* Replace your camera battery before it runs empty.
* When your memory card is full and you’d still like to continue shooting, replace it with a new card instead of editing in-camera by deleting and shooting, deleting and shooting.
* If you’re going to use your memory card in a different camera, format it in the new camera before shooting.
* Don’t drop your memory cards.
* Don’t get your memory cards wet.
* Try to keep it away from electrical currents. This goes for x-ray machines at airports too, so if you need to have your camera bag scanned, remove the cards before scanning the bag.
* Don’t put your cards in your pocket, if it comes into contact with coins or keys it might cause a short.
* Finally, if your images have downloaded to your computer successfully, back it up immediately by saving it to CD/DVD, or by saving it on an external hard drive or flash disc. It’s not just the memory card that can corrupt, your computer could also give you trouble and it’s safer to have a separate backup. These things are not guaranteed to corrupt your memory card, and you could possibly break most of these rules and get away with it, but rather be safe than sorry.
Marinda Van Zyl is a South African photographer that specialises in weddings and fashion photography, but also shoots concerts, products, events etc. Visit http://www.marinda.co.za to view some of her work, as well as articles on photography and photoshop tutorials.
Source: www.articletrader.com
