PLEASE HELP!!! IPHONE PROBLEM!?

Okay, I really need help! The best answer will get 10 pts. !! Okay, so i plugged in my ipod touch 4th generation yesterday to charge. I plugged it into my laptop which is not mac. It said that there was a new version of iTunes to be installed, as well as a new version thing for my ipod. I clicked install. After like 3 hours, it said there was an error. I cant remember what it said but it stopped the whole process and said it cannot be updated. I went to go check on my ipod and it had an image of the usb plug going to itunes. meaning i need to connect to itunes. I did, and it said that my ipod is in recovery mode and that it must be restored. I don't want to restore it, causing me to lose all my photos and things! Ive already tried holding down both buttons at the same time, then plugging it in. And also letting go of the power button when the apple sign comes up, but all that it does is go back to the recovery mode symbol thing. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!