Apple/Grey Screen Stuck -> Disk utility -> back up

Hello,

So I was on my computer and it randomly turned off and turned back on and stayed on the apple/grey screen. I've done the vram reset and ended up where I can boot up the installation disk. I've gotten to where I can access the disk utility and repair/verify disk permissions but ended up getting the error code: 'Error: no valid packages.' From my hard drive, all I need are pictures and videos that I had just backed up the day before. Could someone help me (easiest way for me to follow is through steps) on how to just back up specific files or folders (i.e. pictures folders)??

Thanks again for your help!

Chad