Personally, I like the sense of conscious control over memories and in-the-moment recall that mnemonic techniques give me. Sure, they take practice and consistent application to become habit, but they do provide a very pleasant sense of command over your mental processes....and help you stay present with things.
Also, I've heard it suggested by certain memory researchers that what often gets labeled a 'photographic memory' is actually a very skillful or innate application of synesthesia -- or making strong associations from as many of the five senses as possible. Some seem to do it naturally, others need to practice.
