How to Save Digital Photos to a PC

If you have a digital camera but don't know how to save your pictures you are not alone. This article will help you save those memories and open up space on your expensive digital card so you can reuse it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A digital camera
• A computer
• A link between your camera and your computer

1. On your computer desktop create a new folder so you will have a place to save your photos where they are easy to find. You can do this by holding the cursor on a blank spot on your desktop and right clicking. When the pop up menu appears select "new" and then "folder". Be sure to name the new folder so you can easily find it later. Naming the folder with today's date will make it easy to keep your photos organized.

2. Some computers come with digital card readers. If you are not sure if your PC has card readers check the manual that came with your computer. If you have card readers on your computer, locate the memory card in your camera. Most likely you put it in the camera when you bought it, but if you are not sure where it is consult the manual that came with your camera.

3. If your computer does not have card readers you will need a USB cable to plug your camera directly into the computer. Many cameras come with these included when you buy them. If your camera did not come with a cable, read the manual that came with your camera to find out which cable they recommend. Even if you don't have the manual you can bring the camera to the store where you bought it and ask them which USB cable you need to connect to a computer. Most stores that sell cameras also sell the cables.

4. Connect the digital card to your computer either directly (by plugging it into a card reader) or with the USB cable (by attaching the cable to the camera and the computer). If you connect the camera to the computer with a USB cable you will need to turn the camera on. It may take a few moments for your computer to detect the new hardware.

5. Once the card is synched with the computer a message will pop up asking you what you would like to do with your photos. Select "Copy pictures to a folder on my computer"

6. Next you will have to select where to save your pictures. Carefully read the options as they will vary depending on the software you have.

7. At some point you should see a "browse" button. Press the "browse" button then select "desktop" and scroll down until you find the new folder you created earlier. Select this new folder. Now click on "save" or "ok" depending which software you have.

8. Depending on your system and the number of photos you have it may take several minutes for the pictures to download into the new folder. When the job is done, check to be sure the pictures are actually in the new folder before you erase your memory card.

Tips & Warnings

• If you need to buy a USB cable bring your camera with you and ask for help at the store to be sure you get the right cable. If possible, try the cable right in the store to be sure it fits into the port on your camera. A salesman can help you locate the port.
• When the memory card is not in the computer or the camera it's important to keep it away from dust or moisture.
• Before you erase your memory card for reuse it's a good idea to back up your pictures. You can do this by saving them to a CD or downloading them to a picture website online.
• When you remove the memory card from the camera be sure to only handle the end with the label on it. The other side is delicate and can be damaged.