When photos disappear from an SD card, the safest first step is to stop using the card. Do not take more photos on it, do not format it in the camera, and do not run random repair apps that write changes. New data can overwrite the space where missing files may still exist.

Missing photos can be caused by accidental deletion, interrupted transfers, file system corruption, failing flash memory or a camera/card compatibility issue. The same symptom can have different recovery paths.

Keep the card as it is

Remove the SD card and store it safely. If the card has a lock switch, set it to lock if appropriate. Avoid bending, cleaning contacts aggressively or trying it in many devices repeatedly.

Write down the camera model, card brand and what happened before the photos went missing. If there are error messages, take photos of them with another device.

Recovery depends on what changed

Deleted photos, formatted cards and failing cards are different cases. Outcomes depend on the card condition and whether new data has been written.

AEPC / AKL East PC can assess SD card and storage data cases in Auckland. Contact us with the device details and symptoms before making further changes.