Why Memory Card Speed Matters

Why Memory Card Speed Matters

When it comes to digital photography, the speed of your memory card can be just as important as the quality of your camera. The faster your card can write and store data, the less likely you are to miss a critical moment while waiting for your camera to catch up. Here's a closer look at why memory card speed matters in photography cameras.
Reading Why Memory Card Speed Matters 3 minutes Next How to Pick the Right Lens for Your Photography Needs

Continuous Shooting Modes Require Fast Memory Cards

If you're planning on using your camera's continuous shooting mode, you'll need a memory card that can keep up with the rapid-fire pace at which your camera will be taking pictures. Continuous shooting mode is often used by sports and action photographers who need to be able to capture several photos in quick succession in order to guarantee they get at least one perfect shot. A slow memory card will cause your camera to lag, which means you could easily miss the split-second opportunity you were hoping to capture.

Card Speed for 4K Video

Similarly, if you're planning on using your camera to shoot 4K video, you'll need a memory card that can handle the high data transfer rates associated with this cutting-edge video format. 4K video requires a minimum of 60 megabits per second (Mbps), which is well beyond the capabilities of most standard memory cards. If you try to use a slow card with a 4K-capable camera, you'll likely end up with dropped frames and choppy video footage.

Choosing a Memory Card for Your Need

When it comes to choosing a memory card, there are a lot of factors to consider. The first thing you need to ask yourself is what kind of photography or videography you do. If you're shooting high-resolution photos or videos, then you'll need a card with a high-speed rating.

You also need to consider the capacity of the card. If you're shooting lots of high-resolution photos or videos, then you'll need a card with plenty of storage space. And finally, you need to think about the durability of the card. If you're often shooting in rugged environments, then you'll need a card that can withstand extreme conditions.

So how do you choose the right card for your needs? It all depends on what type of photography or videography you do, and what kind of environment you shoot in. But in general, it's always best to choose a card that's faster and has more storage capacity than you think you'll need. That way, you'll never be slowed down by a slow card, and you'll always have plenty of space for your files.


As digital photography continues to evolve, so too do the demands placed on memory cards. If you're serious about photography, make sure you invest in a high-speed memory card that can keep up with your camera's requirements. Otherwise, you run the risk of missing key moments or ending up with subpar video footage.

 

Share Your Point of View on This Topic

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Latest From

The Handbook

Making Small Changes to Achieve the Greatest Results
Growth

Making Small Changes to Achieve the Greatest Results

How the Theory of Marginal Gains Revolutionized British Cycling and Can Help Photographers and Filmmakers Achieve Extraordinary Results Through Dedicated Small Changes
Wayward; Chris Burkard's Life and Stories Behind is Breathtaking Images
Book Club

Wayward; Chris Burkard's Life and Stories Behind is Breathtaking Images

Whether you are a fan of surf photography or not, you need to check out Chris Burkard's book, Wayward. This breathtaking collection of photos will transport you to some of the most beautiful and re...
7 Easy Tips to Keep Your Clients Coming Back
Technics

7 Easy Tips to Keep Your Clients Coming Back

As a professional photographer, your number one priority should be making sure your clients are happy. If they're happy, they'll come back for more. And if they keep coming back for more photoshoot...
The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self | Field Made Co
Book Club

The Power of Discomfort: Why Embracing Challenges Can Lead to a Better Life

In the book Comfort Crisis, Micheal Easter argues that our modern, comfortable lives are actually making us unhealthy and unhappy. He makes a strong case for embracing discomfort and provides plent...
Making Small Changes to Achieve the Greatest Results
Growth

Making Small Changes to Achieve the Greatest Results

How the Theory of Marginal Gains Revolutionized British Cycling and Can Help Photographers and Filmmakers Achieve Extraordinary Results Through Dedicated Small Changes
Wayward; Chris Burkard's Life and Stories Behind is Breathtaking Images
Book Club

Wayward; Chris Burkard's Life and Stories Behind is Breathtaking Images

Whether you are a fan of surf photography or not, you need to check out Chris Burkard's book, Wayward. This breathtaking collection of photos will transport you to some of the most beautiful and re...
7 Easy Tips to Keep Your Clients Coming Back
Technics

7 Easy Tips to Keep Your Clients Coming Back

As a professional photographer, your number one priority should be making sure your clients are happy. If they're happy, they'll come back for more. And if they keep coming back for more photoshoot...
The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self | Field Made Co
Book Club

The Power of Discomfort: Why Embracing Challenges Can Lead to a Better Life

In the book Comfort Crisis, Micheal Easter argues that our modern, comfortable lives are actually making us unhealthy and unhappy. He makes a strong case for embracing discomfort and provides plent...