Introduction
Losing photos from a formatted SD card can be devastating, especially if they hold sentimental value or capture irreplaceable moments. However, there is hope for recovering deleted photos, even after formatting an SD card. In this article, I will provide an in-depth guide on how to recover lost photos from a formatted SD card.
Why Photos Are Deleted When An SD Card Is Formatted
When an SD card is formatted, the file system structure on the card is reorganized. This process wipes clean the ‘index’ of where files are located. The photos and videos are not immediately erased, but the links to their storage locations get deleted.
So the photos remain on the SD card until they get overwritten by new data. Therefore, as long as you stop using the SD card right after formatting, you have a good chance of recovering deleted photos.
Act Quickly for Best Results
The key to successfully recover lost photos is to act quickly and avoid anything that could overwrite the deleted files. As soon as you realize you formatted the SD card, stop using it immediately.
Even simply viewing or copying files to the card can overwrite your deleted photos. The more you use the card, the higher the chances of permanent data loss.
Use Photo Recovery Software
Specialized photo recovery software is the most effective way to recover deleted photos from a formatted SD card. The software scans the card and pulls up a list of recoverable photo and video files.
Some top-rated SD card photo recovery software options include:
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Stellar Photo Recovery – works on Windows and Mac computers. Can recover photos, videos, and audio files.
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EaseUS Photo Recovery – Windows and Mac compatible. Allows previewing recoverable files.
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Remo Photo Recovery – uses advanced recovery algorithms. Can retrieve RAW image files.
I recommend trying multiple software to compare which gets the best results for your SD card. Follow all steps carefully during the recovery process.
Using Photo Recovery Software: Step-By-Step
Here is a step-by-step overview of using photo recovery software to rescue deleted photos from a formatted SD card:
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Connect the SD card to your computer, either using a built-in SD slot or external card reader. Do not save, edit, or transfer any files to the formatted card.
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Download and install the photo recovery software on your Windows or Mac computer. Make sure to use a trusted and reputable software.
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Run the software and select the SD card drive to scan. The software will analyze the card sector-by-sector.
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Select a recovery mode (like ‘Format Recovery’, ‘Deleted Photo Recovery’, etc. based on your case). Choose an output folder to save recovered files.
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Start the data recovery scan. This may take some time depending on the capacity of your SD card. Let the scan run to completion.
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Preview and select the photos you want to recover. Carefully check that they are intact.
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Recover the data to the safe storage location on your computer. Don’t save recovered photos back to the SD card.
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Safely store the photos, back them up, and format the SD card after recovery to use it again.
Tips to Avoid Formatting SD Cards
Losing photos to accidental formatting is very frustrating. Here are some tips to avoid formatting your SD cards in the future:
- Enable ‘write protection’ tab on SD cards when storing long-term files.
- Be very careful when deleting individual files or reforming cards.
- Double check before clicking ‘Format’ on your camera or computer.
- Handle SD cards safely to prevent corruption issues.
- Back up your photos immediately after taking them.
Conclusion
Accidentally formatting an SD card and deleting valuable photos is a horrible feeling. Prompt action and the right photo recovery software gives you a strong chance to get back lost pictures from a formatted SD card. Just remember – stop using the card immediately after formatting, research recovery options, and act quickly. With the right tools and techniques, you can rescue precious photos and get back lost memories.
