could not start the windows image acquisition (wia) service on local computer

I tried to connect my digital camera to my laptop and it made a beeping noise (so I assume the comp can detect the new hardware connected). But the Canon file transfer software refused to automatically open (as it normally did) and when I went to My Computer, I can't see the camera there... which means I couldn't retrieve my pics.

I don't know if this is related but I then check the Windows Image Acquisition in Services. It's set to Manual.. so I clicked Start. BUt then it gave me a warning "could not start the windows image acquisition (wia) service on local computer" "Error 3: The system cannot find the path specified". I tried to change the setting to Automatic and restart my computer but it didn't help.

ANyone knows how to fix this?