How to Insert an SD Card Into a Nikon D3500

The D3500’s SD slot sits on the right side at the bottom, and the card only goes in one way, label toward the back of the camera.

Open the SD card compartment. If you’re pointing the camera as if to take a photo, it’s on the right side at the bottom.

Gently slide the cover in the direction of the arrow that’s marked on the door.

Push gently to slide the door in the direction of the arrow. It will go out a little and then a spring will pop it open.

Slide the memory card into the slot. The side with the label should face the back of the camera. The side with the metal contact points should be facing forward in the direction of the lens.

The SD card slides into the slot. The metal pins on the back of the card should be facing the front of the camera–so the label is facing the back of the camera. This shot shows the SD card just sitting in there, but it’s not yet fully installed.

To fully install the SD card, push down gently. There’s a spring-loaded catch that will hold it in place. If the card won’t go all the way down so that it’s flush with the camera, the first thing to check is that the SD card is the correct way around (i.e., pins facing the front of the camera).

Gently push the card down into the camera until it clicks into place. It should stay in place flush with the slot. Don’t force it. If it doesn’t go down easily, the first thing to check is that the card is the right way around.

Close the SD compartment door by folding it down and gently sliding it back into place.