Digital camera accessories

[Anna]

So, does that mean if I changed my setting from low level format to format, that my data is forever gone. Or would it take some really high end, expensive product to get it back or maybe even a geniuse. Also does it give me the right to complain to the Canon company about not giving a warning to what changing the format will do. I've noticed most other cameras give you a warning before you just delete all your pictures through format

[bdery]

Hi and welcome!

I'm not sure I understand exactly what you mean. Did you format your card, and now you realize you didn't transfer your pictures to the computer, and you fear they are lost forever?

If I understand correctly, you did not do a "low level format" but a regular format. If that's the case, your pictures should still be available. Use a photo recovery software (I used PC Inspector once, there are many others, and many are free or free to try).

A regular format simply erases the part of the memory that records where each file is saved on the card, so the files themselves are still there. It's the same as doing a "delete all" action.

A low level format is like a reinitialization of the card : every memory space is erased, and the data is lost.

I don't know which camera you own, but in the manual of my Canon it clearly states to use format and low level format when you're sure of what you're doing.

I hope you can find your pictures back!

[Anna]

No, I used a low level format on my pics. So that means they are gone forever basically, unless I can find a way to do a total recall of every image ever taken. Which from what your saying seems impossible. I didn't see that in the manual, it just would have been nice to get some sort of messge before I lost every picture in the world. It was over 1,000.

[ShutterbugGail]

It won't hurt to give photo recovery a try, even though you may have done a low level format. Here is a free program....give it a try:

http://www.artplus.hr/adapps/eng/dpr.htm

Most free programs only recover jpegs, so if you've taken videos you may want to purchase a program.

You may also want to consider calling the maker of your memory card. They do photo recovery, or can recommend a company that does. It may cost you some money but I'd hate losing every picture you've taken.

Here's some information and a tutorial on photo recovery:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/processing-photos/photo-recovery/

[Anna]

Thank you both for the help. The person who suggested calling my memory card company... do you think there is a really high chance of getting them back that way? Or just a hope. I will try your recovery site, but I have tried others and they haven't worked yet. But I will keep in touch.

[ShutterbugGail]

... do you think there is a really high chance of getting them back that way?

I honestly don't know if there is a low or high chance of getting them back. I only know if I lost all my photos, and they were special to me, I'd give it a try.

The advice you receive in a forum such as this is based on users experiences, and that can be very helpful more often than not. But most of us do not have the in depth technical expertise that is available by calling Canon or the card manufacturer.

If they assess that there is a chance of recovering all or some of the photos, then you must determine if the cost is worth it.

As an aside, whenever I take a bunch of photos, I transfer them to my computer. I often make back ups of the ones on the computer. Then I completely erase the memory card prior taking my next set of photos. As to a low level format, I do it about once a month AFTER I transfer and check all my images.

Let us know how it goes. I do hope you get some or all of your photos back.

[Anna]

Ok thanks for the advice. Are there any other good recovery sites you know?

[Anna]

Or know anyone who's been through what I have losing low level format pictures?

[ShutterbugGail]

Ok thanks for the advice. Are there any other good recovery sites you know?

Do a Google search for "memory card photo recovery"


You'll find a number of places that offer recovery software. Some, like this one, offer a free trial using their software.

http://www.cardrecovery.com/

If you have a name brand memory card, give the manufacturer a call. They may offer professional photo recovery services or advise you of a company that does.

[Anna]

Your help is much appreciated. Just one final question, do you happen to know anyone else who has lost low level format pictures or been in the exact situation?

[ShutterbugGail]

You're welcome.

No, I do not. But, as mentioned, give Canon a call and they may be able to help you.

[Anna]

Wait should I give Cannon or Toshiba the maker of the memory card a call.

[ShutterbugGail]

I'd probably call Canon first to see what they suggest. I think they would be most qualified to tell you if there is a way to recover photos after a low level format.

Here is the Canon World Gateway website. Go to the appropriate country or region and check out the Support area to get their phone number:

http://www.canon.com/gateway/region/americas.html

Let us know how it turns out. I do hope you are able to recover some of your photos !

[Anna]

Alright, will do.

I'll tell you how it goes.

[Anna]

Alright, Canon didn't work. I'm going to try Toshiba, but I don't know what area my problem falls into. Any idea?