Deleting images in the camera

[Conk]

I read a post by a member on another forum where he mentioned deleting photos from the camera to make space as the card was full and wanted to make room for keepers. I used to do this also but found that there were times I'd download the images from the card to my computer and there would be a file or two that ended up being corrupt. I have heard of this happening before to other people and I am just wondering if anyone here has experienced the same. I have since made it a rule to never under any circumstances delete from the camera as important images could be lost.

[CaseyScofield]

I always delete unwanted images before downloading, and have never had a problem.

[tommykjensen]

Not experienced that. Though I only delete few in camera.

[Steve Parr]

I never had a problem deleting images "on the fly"; had to do it once or twice. I picked up a 1gig card and it's no longer an issue for me...

Steve

[Vegas Poboy]

Never had a problem but I only delete the test shots or the ones I know is really bad in most cases. Bigger cards helps overcome that problem.

[Aethyr]

What's the big deal about deleting pictures directly on the camera? Isn't that why they made the delete button?

[robertwgross]

Deleting images from a CF card in the camera is no big deal, as long as you do it correctly.

That means, do it, and then wait for some seconds, because those changes have to be written to the directory of the CF card. If you just delete and then instantly eject the card, you are likely to hit it in the middle of the write, and then you'll get corrupt files.

Just wait for the CF access light to extinguish.

---Bob Gross---

[Aethyr]

^ I see... anyone that has used a computer SHOULD know to wait for the card to finish doing what it's doing before ejecting the CF card. It's the same principle with a floppy drive on a computer.

[johneric8]

I always delete on my 20d if I dont like the shot

[Solo175]

Conk,
Is it the actual act of deleting pictures from your card in camera that can wreak havoc with the pictures already on said card before downloading onto computer that is causing the problem?

I do this all the time on my cards, delete pictures, that there is no way of fixing without compromising the others (I hope).

[Jon]

I don't delete in the camera unless I've just shot a bunch of test shots that I have absolutely no intention of going any further with. For instance, checking out the exact sequence of events for an answer I'm posting here. Then I delete a block of the last photos on the card. I don't like to delete a file here and a file there as I go, because I'm somewhat leery about getting my cards fragmented. I figure I'd prefer to let the camera have a straight block of space on the card to write the file out to rather than make it skip around the card to squeeze the shot in. Both more reliable and faster.

[dgrasser]

I have a Sandisk 512 MB, Kodak CX6445, and an Easyshare Dock.

I have experienced problems transferring files only twice.

Once when I tried to use my computer's built in card reader and just today when using my dock and the Kodak Easyshare software.

Today, when I tried to transfer the photos, the software indicated that there were 21 pictures, but only showed 5 and two were only partially shown (mostly blocked out).

I then tried to put the card in my computer's card reader and it said that the files/card were corrupted.

I then unprotected the 21 files as I had protected them to delete other files but not them.

I then re-booted my computer, turned off all other programs, including Norton Antivirus and Microsoft Anti-Spyware.

I then put the disk back in my camera dock and this time all 21 pictures came up just fine.

So....I am not sure if it was just the rebooting, turning of the anti virus/spyware software, unprotecting them, or a combination of any of these, but I was able to get all of my photos.

I normally don't have problems transferring files from my camera, but it could have something to do with the fact that I had protected the 21 files, then deleted all of the other ones (from my last transfer), then tried to transfer the protected files.

Anyway, I am glad that I got all the files off the disk.

Oh, and lastly, the fact that I could review all of the pictures on my camera, even though my computer said they were corrupted, lead be to believe that they were still there and that there was a solution.

My advice, try doing any or all of the steps I did before deleting the files or re-formatting your card.

[robertwgross]

I have a Sandisk 512 MB, Kodak CX6445, and an Easyshare Dock. ...


I'm curious as to why you've posted the same message over and over in different forum threads, and it is not even a Canon camera.

---Bob Gross---

[tommykjensen]

The resident expert at Best Buy explained that I should never delete from the camera because the hole that the images are dropped out of can become completely clogged, thereby necessitating the use of a toothpick to pry each image out of the cf card.

Tell the socalled expert that he is full of it!

Yes deleting and creating new files on any kind of drive, harddisk, microdrive, flashcard etc will cause fragmentation over time. However with flash cards for cameras the cards are copied and cleared regulary so the problem described would only occur if You shoot alot, delete photos, then shoot more, then delete again and so on.

[aam1234]

Somebody here posted a link about this kind of problem. What the link suggested was not to delete photos when the card is full or near full.

[tim]

Most people will delete all their images from the card as soon as they're downloaded to the PC, so fragmentation should never be an issue. A file system like FAT32 can keep track of massively fragmented files anyway, I don't think it's worth even thinking about. I try not to delete images from the camera just because it's slow and it's time I could be spending taking photos, I have done it occasionally when I was low on storage space - the next day I ordered another 4GB of CF so I didn't have to in future.

[PhotosGuy]

necessitating the use of a toothpick to pry each image out of the cf card. It's best to use a plastic toothpick. Wood might splinter & leave spots on your images. The only other problems I've experienced have been the color shifts caused when I accidentally dropped a cf card onto the pavement.You can fix that in Photo$$$hop. Or try to drop it the same way on the other side of the card. This takes some practice to get it right. To undo the changes, just put the card in a 1 quart Mason jar & shake it for about 10 seconds.

Just what is you're avatar about to do, Conk? ;-) Are you making a subtle statement there?

[cmM]

The resident expert at Best Buy
http://www.cmuntean.net/images/smilies/chairfall.gif
ROFLMAO!!!!!

I thought "expert" and "best buy" are antonyms :-P

[MazerRakhm]

http://www.cmuntean.net/images/smilies/chairfall.gif
ROFLMAO!!!!!

I thought "expert" and "best buy" are antonyms :-P

I think they are...

To undo the changes, just put the card in a 1 quart Mason jar & shake it for about 10 seconds.
Does it have to be a Mason jar, or can I use say an old grape jelly jar? Or how about strawberry, is flavor important here?

[S230]

thereby necessitating the use of a toothpick to pry each image out of the cf card.
Should I run to a Radio Shack and get one of these toothpicks.. hehe.. :)
Scary to think what would happen if you were to take your computer there for service...
Just hope they fix the cup holder... :)

[PhotosGuy]

Does it have to be a Mason jar, or can I use say an old grape jelly jar? Or how about strawberry, is flavor important here? Regional variations are acceptable for the container. Some esoteric fruit flavors are important in areas of California, but grape is OK in the midwest.;) Just hope they fix the cup holder... I loved that one when I heard it! :D

[lostdoggy]

Will a martini mixer work??? I've been drinking with Jack Lately!!!

[Wazza]

I would never use a toothpick, unless it had the L label on it. Can't risk putting a cheap product into my CF card. Could damage it!

[AXENA]

This is a very serious subject matter... and should not be taken lightly. To remove unwanted images from a CF card, toothpicks should never be utilized. As stated previously, it may leave "specks" on the remaining images on the card. Instead, the best method by far is using a combination of high-octane gasoline and vinegar. 2-parts gasoline to 1 part vinegar. Place the combination into (yes) a #5 Mason jar (that part is correct). If you are hard-pressed, a jelly/jam jar will suffice, however, it should be STRAWBERRY.... CF cards do not in fact interact well with grape-variety jellies and jams. If they did, more cards would have purple labels rather than red or black with red lettering. The CF cards, therefore, are more adaptable to any jelly or jam product that has tints of red. So yes, strawberry is the best (sorry for the long explanation, but it needed to be clarified). Place your CF card in the mixture and set aside in the sun for at least 10 hours. If you live in an area where sun is an issue (i.e. Seattle or London) then the next best solution is to place this mixture with the card into an oven set at precisely 150-degrees farenheight (sorry...don't know the Celsius conversion factor by memory). After your CF card has "baked" using either method, immediately place the CF card into the microwave for 45-seconds on "HI". This should clear your unwanted images permanently.

Additionally, you might want to consider using Vaseline to lubricate your CF card when placing into your camera... sometimes those little cards get stuck... the vaseline mixture does help to insert/remove the card. Just another neat little tip from the experts at B*st B*y.

For those who are really considering this: DO NOT DO ANY OF THE ABOVE! IT WILL DESTROY YOUR EQUIPMENT (not to mention explode in your oven and cause your home to burn to the ground).

Disclaimer: Some may read this satire and consider it to be factual. The above is fictitious. Do not attempt. This product is meant for educational purposes only. Any resemblance to real persons living or dead is purely coincidental. Void where prohibited. Some assembly required. List each check separately by bank number. Batteries not included. Our operators are standing by. Contents may settle during shipment. Use only as directed. No other warranty expressed or implied. Do not use while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment. Postage will be paid by addressee. Subject to CAB approval. This is not an offer to sell securities. Apply only to affected area. May be too intense for some viewers. Do not stamp. Use other side for additional listings. For recreational use only .Do not disturb. All models over 18 years of age. If condition persists, consult your physician. No user-serviceable parts inside. Freshest if eaten before date on carton. Subject to change without notice. Times are approximate. Simulated picture. No postage necessary if mailed in the United States. Please remain seated until the ride has come to a complete stop. Breaking seal constitutes acceptance of agreement. For off-road use only. As seen on TV. One size fits all. You break it, you pay for it. Many suitcases look alike. Contains a substantial amount of non-tobacco ingredients. Colors may fade. We have sent the forms which seem right for you. Slippery when wet. For office use only. Not affiliated with the American Red Cross. Dropin any mailbox. No Tresspassing. Edited for television. Keep cool; process promptly. Post office will not deliver without postage. List was current at time of printing. Return to sender, no forwarding order on file, unable to forward. Not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages resulting from any defect, error or failure to perform. At participating stores only. Penalty for private use. See label for sequence. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal. Do not write below this line. Falling rock zone. Lost ticket pays maximum rate. Your canceled check is your receipt. Add toner. Place stamp here. Avoid contact with skin. Sanitized for your protection. Be sure each item is properly endorsed. Sign here without admitting guilt. Slightly higher west of the Mississippi. Employees and their families are not eligible. Beware of dog. Contestants have been briefed on some questions before the show. Limited time offer, call now to ensure prompt delivery. You must be present to win. No passes accepted for this engagement. No purchase necessary. Processed at location stamped in code at top of carton. Shading within a garment may occur. Use only in a well-ventilated area. Keep away from fire or flames. Replace with batteries of the same type. Approved for veterans. Booths for two or more. Check here if tax deductible. Some equipment shown is optional. Price does not include taxes. No Canadian coins. Not recommended for children. Pre-recorded for this time zone. Reproduction strictly prohibited. No solicitors. Exact change only. No alcohol, dogs or horses. No anchovies unless otherwise specified. Restaurant package, not for resale. List at least two alternate dates. First pull up, then pull down. Call toll free number before digging. Driver does not carry cash. Some of the trademarks mentioned in this product appear for identification purposes only. Objects in mirror may be closer than they appear. Record additional transactions on back of previous stub. Unix is a registered trademarkof AT&T. Do not fold, spindle or mutilate. No transfers issued until the bus comes to a complete stop. Package sold by weight, not volume.Your mileage may vary.
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[AXENA]

I am the master of small print! :-) I do hold a degree (M.S.P. - Master's in Small Print) from a small university in the Cayman Islands (Scruem University).... paid $50 for the degree... but well worth the investment! And no classes to attend.... they just send you the disclaimers and you plug them in where you need them. LOL Students may attend my classes to learn the fine art of disclaimers. I offer the B.S. degree in Small Print (B.S. doesn't stand for Bachelor's of Science.....)

Actually, an attorney friend of mine had this posted on his personal website, and I loved it, so I stole it..... I thought it was kinda cute and covers (most) of the bases... I may have missed a few though... any thoughts?
-GSL

[AXENA]

BTW... gotta have a sense of humor in this life..... it's too short to take seriously! :-)

[S230]

No user-serviceable parts inside.
One size fits all.
Keep cool;
Beware of dog.
No Canadian coins.
Package sold by weight, not volume.lol.... LMAO!!!
This reading is heavy...

[DocFrankenstein]

Don't show this thread to nik0nians :D

[Conk]

Conk,
Is it the actual act of deleting pictures from your card in camera that can wreak havoc with the pictures already on said card before downloading onto computer that is causing the problem?

I do this all the time on my cards, delete pictures, that there is no way of fixing without compromising the others (I hope).

Yes. I ran into problems when deleting images that I didn't want from the card, in camera before downloading to my pc. Trying to free up some card memory. I did this a few times and all my photos seemed to load when I transferred to my computer but the files were empty. The picture file icon was there but the file sizes were 1 or 2 kbs and could not be opened. I would look at the file number and realize that they were images that were adjacent to the ones deleted in the camera.

PhotosGuy wrote
Just what is you're avatar about to do, Conk? Are you making a subtle statement there?

:lol: I thought about putting a "N***n'" in there. :D I still might.

[lostdoggy]

I read a post by a member on another forum where he mentioned deleting photos from the camera to make space as the card was full and wanted to make room for keepers. I used to do this also but found that there were times I'd download the images from the card to my computer and there would be a file or two that ended up being corrupt. I have heard of this happening before to other people and I am just wondering if anyone here has experienced the same. I have since made it a rule to never under any circumstances delete from the camera as important images could be lost.

How did you get to be a Gold Member??? Its basic computing. when you delete a file you don't actually delete the file, you only alter the FAT (File Allocation Table). In order for the file to be actually erased you would have to write to the drive in this case flash memory with random 1s and 0s. This way the file not be recoverable in normal means.

[tim]

How did you get to be a Gold Member???

GoldMember is related to number of posts, not knowledge, experience, or anything else.

[lostdoggy]

So I SEE!!!

[lostdoggy]

I Gotta long ays to go!!!hehehehe

[S230]

Yes. I ran into problems when deleting images that I didn't want from the card, in camera before downloading to my pc. Trying to free up some card memory. I did this a few times and all my photos seemed to load when I transferred to my computer but the files were empty. The picture file icon was there but the file sizes were 1 or 2 kbs and could not be opened. I would look at the file number and realize that they were images that were adjacent to the ones deleted in the camera..
You should try reading from a different card reader. I ran into this myself and was worried... but fortunately it turned out to be a faulty card reader. For good practice, one in a while, format the card and start fresh to precent fragmentting.

[Conk]

You should try reading from a different card reader. I ran into this myself and was worried... but fortunately it turned out to be a faulty card reader. For good practice, one in a while, format the card and start fresh to precent fragmentting.

I do use a rather cheap card reader but it seems to function ok. I carry enough memory nowadays that I never need to delete from the camera anymore. After downloading images from the card to my computer I always format then most times eject. The reason I started doing this was because it is 100x faster than deleting the images after download.

[MAD DOG]

You guys crack me up.

I'm off out to buy a good plastic tooth pick, just in case!

[MazerRakhm]

I'm off out to buy a good plastic tooth pick, just in case!

Deffinitely get one of the ones from a swiss army knife. That way it'll also come with tweasers, saw, and corkscrew, just in case!