

Since the steps vary from camera to camera, check your manual for specific instructions. The functions are generally accessed in Playback mode, though they can be accessed in other modes on some cameras. Check your camera manualįormatting and erasing a memory card is done through the main Menu. You can read more about this free software here. The utility, which offers three levels of formatting, was developed by the Association. SD Formatter: for Secure Digital memory cardsĪccording the the Secure Digital Association, SD Formatter is the preferred way to format Secure Digital Cards. If you plan to use a memory card that was previously used in another camera, format the card in the new camera before taking any shots. Though opinions vary, many recommend formatting a memory card in a digital camera, not via a computer. For optimal video performance, it’s also recommended that a low level format be done sometime prior to recording. New directories and folders are also recreated during this process.Ī low-level format of a high speed memory card helps ensure smooth continuous shooting at a constant interval.



With a low level format, all data on the card is deleted. Some digital cameras offer a low level format in addition to the standard format option. Unlike erasing, formatting improves the overall performance of a card. It recreates the file system including new directories and folders where images are saved on the card. Formatting a memory cardįormatting, on the other hand, deletes all images from a memory card, even the ones that may have been protected. However, any images that you’ve selected to be “protected” through another menu option will not be removed during the erasure process. You can erase one or more user selected images at a time, or erase all images at one time. When erasing a memory card, individual photos are deleted from their directories on the card. While it’s possible to recover image files with special software after either process, you may only have a partial recovery, or recover no images at all. Make sure you back up any important photo and video files prior to erasing or formatting a card. Before erasing or formatting a memory card Format more often if your camera is used frequently. A memory card should be formatted several times a year, particularly if its performance seems sluggish.
