the purpose for your photography is to collect information, and store it
for use at another time. this might aid in your recollection of events
(perhaps even recording details which you were unaware of), and/or
provide documentation for others to observe and reflect on [if you were
to make it available for them].
there's also the "artistic" aspect of image collecting, but that's not really
a distinct operation [unless the information is
distorted in some way, imo].
the idea that you'd used a setting which isn't available for use in "the real world"
is saying that the events witnessed aren't entirely occurring within 3D reality.
the communications with alien entities precede a flood (of information? emotions?)
that will effect people throughout the region... you couldn't remain within
the dream because the entire landscape (including your perceptions of life)
will be altered after this contact event.
my hunch is that the flood will act to restore your memories, and cure any
history of forgetfulness.