Lessons Learned: Media value

This gentle picture represents a really stupid mistake.

Typically, I'll keep two media/film pockets handy (generally on the camera bag, rather than on my body), so that I can change media quickly and keep shooting. But I didn't have my system in place, so I improvised by putting a stack of three-inch Sony CDs in my right rear jeans pocket and the one that I'd just shot in my left rear jeans pocket.

I thought the CDs would be safe there, but then I returned to the car without removing the exposed CD, plopped down into the driver's set, and sat on the seat belt buckle. Of course, it hit exactly on the exposed CD, breaking it from center to edge.

I've tried two data recovery companies to see if they could salvage even some of the wonderful images I recall being on that CD, but with current technology, they tell me it's hopeless. Sheesh. Something like 180 to 200 pictures gone, just because of a foolish mistake. Ouch.

The Lesson Learned here is that exposed media (film, CD, memory stick) is far more valuable than unexposed media. Give it the care it deserves. It's your work, and on there may be your next prize-winning photograph.