"Unrecognized file type" message

After importing numerous batches of photos from my camera I discovered the weird, randomly named folders iPhoto had put them into and tried to rearrange them. After discovering the mess I'd made I threw out the existing iPhoto database and preferences and tried to start over. Somewhere in there I got a prompt to update iPhoto (from what older version I can't remember), which I OK'd; it took about half an hour to "convert" to iPhoto 4.0.3. Now I can't import any photos at all: I get the "unrecognized file type" message even though I don't have any trouble opening any pictures in Preview or Photoshop. I've tried both the Import menu and dragging photos from the Finder.
Please help.
PowerBook G4 Mac OS X (10.3.9) iPhoto 4.0.3

Dutchie
Here is the simple answers first.
1. You made the most common mistake with iPhoto You tampered with the database trying to change all those weird folders. You can't do that. More on this later.
2. When you get that unrecognizable message your are probably trying to import something that was already in the database. Can't do that either.
Read what follows first and then we can get you back up and working.
iPhoto Terms
iPhoto
The application is designed to do EVERYTHING working in the application with the options available in the window and menus. Basically, once a photo has been imported into iPhoto (file copied to the database) that file is available only through the application. To use it some place else (that is not an iPhoto option) - export, or drag it from the window.
Photo Library
Note: that is "Photo Library", not "iPhoto Library". This is the option you see in the source window to display all the photos imported into iPhoto.
iPhoto Library (Folder)
To avoid grief please read this carefully!. The iPhoto Library is a folder that iPhoto creates and by default puts in your user Pictures Folder. This folder is the database where iPhoto actually stores everything you have done in the application. iPhoto keeps this folder in a special way, with special files, folders and subfolders.
Leave this folder alone. Don't add, delete or change anything in this folder. If you do - the database can collapse like a house of cards. Don't browse through it with other applications, like email, one slip can mean disaster.
iPhoto can work with several databases - iPhoto Library folders - but can only open and work with one at a time. These folders can be renamed and stored anywhere - as long as iPhoto knows the name and location - and is directed to open with the folder you select. If you want to move or backup the iPhoto Library folder - you must work with the ENTIRE folder. Don't try to move or backup pieces of the folder.

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Regards
TD

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Turnmerv wrote:
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hotwheels 22 wrote:
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hello.
i've been using iPhoto for a couple of months now. i really enjoy the way it organizes my pictures on a by-date-basis. however, i encountered this problem only now.
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gary
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"Unrecognized file type" message

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