any input would be appreciated
A card reader is a cheap ($10) but useful device that helps you transfer images from your camera to your computer. Here's how it works: Your digital camera will store images on a removable memory card. To see your pics on your puter, remove the card, put it into the card reader, and plug the reader into the USB slot on your machine. The puter will see it as an external drive. Click on the drive and you'll see a list of all your image files. You can then view them, sort them, delete them or edit them. Your camera will also come with a USB cable which accomplishes the same thing, but usually more slowly. To use the cable you'll also have to leave the camera on, which uses up batteries. Card readers are available wherever cameras and memory cards are sold. Don't forget to get one that'll accept the type of card you have. A universal one is best, as you can change cameras without buying a new reader. Hope this helps. V
I have a multi-slot card reader for several size cards. I use the reader to download images from one card while I continue to shoot with my camera using an extra card. This way I don't tie up the camera. Also, I can put the camera away and keep the card(s) out and download with the the reader later when I have time. The multi-slot reader comes in handy for cards I use in my cell phone, MP3 player, and 2 digital cameras (two size cards). No, you don't have to have a card reader, but they are cheap and versatile.
You shouldn't need a card reader, the camera will have a cable and software that will probably connect to your USB port for uploading to your computer.
Previous answer is correct that you don't need a card reader, but they are cheap and easier to use than the camera's software. The card reader will look like another drive in MY COMPUTER and you can drag pics off of it. Using the camera can be problematic if the batteries are low.
