Symptoms
- Photos show as gray or broken thumbnails
- Error message when trying to open a photo file
- File size shows as 0 KB or unusually small
- Only some photos on the card are affected
Likely causes
- CommonMemory card removed while the camera was still writing dataInterrupting a write in progress corrupts the file being saved.
- CommonBattery died mid-write while saving a photoSudden power loss during a save can corrupt that file.
- PossibleMemory card developing bad sectorsAging or heavily used cards can develop unreadable areas.
- PossibleCard used across multiple devices without proper ejectionImproper removal from a computer can corrupt files too.
- Less commonCounterfeit or very low-quality memory cardFake cards often report more storage than they actually have, corrupting files near capacity.
What to do
- Stop taking new photos on the card immediately to avoid overwriting recoverable data.
- Do not format the card until you've attempted file recovery.
- Use photo recovery software on a computer to attempt to restore corrupted files from the card.
- Check if only recently taken photos are affected, which points to an interrupted write.
- Always wait for the camera's activity light to stop before removing the card in the future.
- Keep the battery charged and consider using in-camera or app battery warnings to avoid mid-write shutdowns.
- If corruption keeps happening across different cards, have the camera's card slot and write process checked professionally.
Tools and parts
- Computer with photo recovery software
Replacement memory cardSearch: “reputable brand high speed SD card”
When to call a pro
If corruption happens repeatedly across different cards, a camera repair shop can check the card slot and write reliability.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.