Camera Storage Calculator
Calculate memory card and storage requirements for your photography
Photography
Storage
Memory Card
~25 MB per 24MP
About Camera Storage Calculator
This calculator estimates storage requirements based on the formula: Storage = file size × number of shots. File sizes are estimated based on typical compression ratios for each format.
When planning a photography session, also consider your camera settings. Our Exposure Triangle Calculator helps balance ISO, aperture, and shutter speed.
For portrait sessions with beautiful background blur, use our Bokeh Strength Estimator to plan your shots.
All calculations are performed locally in your browser. No data is sent to any server.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How big are RAW files?
RAW file size depends on megapixels and bit depth. A 24MP camera produces ~25-30MB compressed RAW files. A 45MP camera produces ~45-60MB. Higher megapixels and uncompressed formats increase file sizes.
Should I shoot RAW or JPEG?
RAW provides maximum editing flexibility and quality but uses more storage. JPEG is smaller and ready to share but has less editing latitude. Many photographers shoot RAW+JPEG for both options.
What memory card size do I need?
For a day of shooting (500-1000 photos), 64GB is usually sufficient for JPEG, while RAW shooters may need 128GB or more. Event and wildlife photographers often use 256GB+ cards.
Does video use the same storage calculation?
No, video storage depends on resolution, frame rate, and codec. 4K 30fps typically uses 300-400 MB per minute. This calculator focuses on still photography.
How do I manage photo storage long-term?
Use the 3-2-1 backup rule: 3 copies of data, on 2 different media types, with 1 offsite. External drives, NAS, and cloud storage (like Backblaze or Google Photos) are common solutions.