Where do I find recently deleted photos on Mac? This is a common question among Mac users who have accidentally deleted important images. Losing cherished memories or crucial documents can be distressing, but there are ways to recover deleted photos on a Mac. In this article, we will explore the various methods to find and restore recently deleted photos on your Mac computer.
Losing recently deleted photos on a Mac can be a frustrating experience, but there are several methods you can try to retrieve them. Here are some of the most effective ways to find recently deleted photos on your Mac:
1. Check the Trash Folder:
The first place you should look for recently deleted photos is the Trash folder. When you delete a photo, it is moved to the Trash, giving you a chance to recover it before it is permanently deleted. To access the Trash folder, simply click on the Trash icon on your Dock. If you find the deleted photos here, you can right-click on them and select “Put Back” to restore them to their original location.
2. Use the “Recently Deleted” Folder:
In macOS Catalina and later versions, Apple introduced the “Recently Deleted” folder, which is a new feature designed to help users recover deleted items more easily. This folder automatically stores deleted items for a specified period, usually 30 days, before they are permanently deleted. To access the “Recently Deleted” folder, go to the Finder, click on “Recently Deleted” in the sidebar, and then restore the photos as needed.
3. Utilize Third-Party Data Recovery Software:
If the above methods do not work or if the photos have been deleted for a long time, you may need to use third-party data recovery software. There are several reliable applications available for Mac, such as Disk Drill, PhotoRec, and iPhoto Recovery. These tools can scan your Mac’s storage for deleted photos and help you recover them. However, it’s essential to act quickly, as the longer you wait, the higher the chances that the deleted photos will be overwritten and become unrecoverable.
4. Check External Drives and SD Cards:
If you deleted the photos from an external drive or an SD card, make sure to check those devices as well. The same methods mentioned above can be applied to external storage devices. Simply connect the drive or card to your Mac, open it in the Finder, and look for the deleted photos in the Trash or the “Recently Deleted” folder.
5. Prevent Future Loss:
To avoid losing important photos in the future, it’s a good idea to regularly back up your Mac. You can use Time Machine to create automatic backups of your entire system, including photos. Additionally, consider using cloud storage services like iCloud Photo Library to store your photos securely and access them from any device.
In conclusion, finding recently deleted photos on a Mac is possible with a few simple steps. By checking the Trash folder, the “Recently Deleted” folder, and using data recovery software, you can often retrieve your lost photos. However, it’s crucial to act quickly and regularly back up your photos to prevent future data loss.
