Microsoft Visual C++ error

I have a dimension 5100 and just recently, whenever I try to download photos or go anywhere near any of my photo applications I get this error "Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Library - This application has requested the runtime to terminate in an unusual way" it then shuts everything down - I have seen on the postings that people have had this similiar error while on word - so far I am only getting it with the photos - anyone able to help? (new computer, not much on it)