Memory Cards!!  

What does your camera take? That's the biggie.

Some cameras only take CF or SD; some won't be able to use SDs over 4 GB; some won't be able to use SDs over 4 GB (or 2 GB, can't remember) unless they're SDHC; etc. Also, you may need a larger card if you're taking super high res pictures and a lot of them. You should also think about whether the computer that you'll be moving the pictures to takes CF or HD. Even if you think you'll have your cord with you everywhere (unless you've got a camera that wirelessly synchs with your computer, of course), there's nothing worse than needing to move pictures and realizing that you don't have your cord and your computer won't take the card!

I'm a big fan of SD cards, so that's what I'd recommend. I have a 2 GB one and it handles close to 500 pictures, shooting RAW at 8 mp. If you're taking smaller pictures (even if you've got a camera with more megapixels) and are able to frequently transfer them to your computer, you probably won't even need that.

As for brands, Lexar is pretty much a rip off. All of the SD(HC) cards that I own are the store brand ones from MicroCenter or CompUSA, and I've never had a problem with speed, even in the picky recorder I have.

Hope that helped.

You can't change the type you use in your camera (compact flash (CF) or secure digital (SD)). Most cameras only fit one type. The compact flash cards are the old style bulky cards and the secure digital are much much smaller. But you have to use whichever one your camera actually takes.

The cards that go over 1GB, such as 2GB through 8GB or more, only work in certain cameras. Check to make sure your model will work before you buy one of these. Especially on the compact flash, they may actually be a microdrive that you camera cannot use.

Brand doesn't seem to matter. I've tried several different brands and they all work equally well. I've paid $80 for some cards and $5 for others. I usually get 1GB cards on sale now for $10 or less. And if your camera uses compact flash you are really in luck because those are easily found for $5 since it is older technology (but still good!).


Hope that helps!

I have 4 cameras that use 3 different memory cards,

Unless you plan on buying a new camera you will have to stick with what your camera uses

My DSLR uses Compact flash which is high speed, 8 gig, and works ok, not a name brand but its suitable.

I use a Dane SD card which I got from Target on clearance half off, 2 gig, I have a 1 gig that my son uses I think a pny which I got from aldi's for like 12.00

I have 2 Sony Cameras that use memory stick pro cards both of them are 2 gigs.

Whatever your camera uses you have to stick with it and make sure you buy what your camera will accept, one of my first cameras I bought an upgraded card 16mb card, and my camera only took up to 8 mb, amazing that 10 years later we are measuring things for photos in gigabyte.

Mooch

I have a Nikon D40 and I use Sandisk Ultra II SD 2 GB cards.I got them on sale recently and paid about $25 each. They are fantastic!I have no doubt that some generic cards will work,but I don't have the guts to risk it! I use some Lexar cards in My Sony and have had good luck with them also.Do not risk buying gray market cards.They are money down the drain.

Check your camera manual and buy the largest and fastest card for your camera. When a I had a smaller 3 mp camera I got a deal on some 256 CF cards and bought them. They are useless in my new DSLR 8 mp Camera. I would also buy from a local store that way if you have problems they c will usually take it back and give you a new one.