Why Does Your Camera Say File Error After Deleting Digital Photos?

Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:12 PM

Asking, “why does your digital camera say file error after deleting digital photos?” to experienced photographers will result in varied answers. Every fellow photographer you run into will eventually have this problem themselves. It’s a commonly covered issue across the board. Knowing how to diagnose and fix it can save your RAW files from disaster, help you clear space on your best digital camera, and more. At this point, you may also be wondering why white turns purple on a digital camera given how prevalent this issue occurs.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • The best troubleshooting is often the simplest, so always safely eject and reinsert your memory card if you’re receiving digital camera errors.
  • You should reformat memory cards regularly to avoid getting this error message.
  • Most brands are willing to walk you through troubleshooting your camera if you believe it’s the cause of the error message.

Why Does Your Camera Say File Error After Deleting Digital Photos?

So, why does your camera say file error after deleting digital photos? There could be a few reasons behind this. You’ll also need to know how to regain access to files if a corrupted memory card is to blame. Whether they’re professional or personal files, they’re essential to you. Basic troubleshooting allows you to delve into the actual recovery process for your digital files sooner. Getting in touch with the brand directly is never a bad idea if you can’t diagnose the problem yourself. In the worst-case scenario, they may suggest resetting your device to factory settings.

Insider Tip

Basic troubleshooting allows you to delve into the actual recovery process for your digital files sooner.

Digital Camera Malfunction

An error of this type could be due to your memory card or due to the camera itself. Not formatting a memory card correctly can cause a malfunction between the card and the camera. The first thing to look into is whether this is a common complaint about your model. While they’re a sound investment, all digital camera models will come with their issues.

Memory Card Troubleshooting Methods

If you’ve concluded that it isn’t the camera causing your issue, it’s time to move on to the next suspect. If your memory card is at fault, then recovering your original files should be the priority. Contact the device manufacturer to see what their guidance on the matter is. You can try some troubleshooting yourself in the meantime, however.

Safely Eject and Reinsert

Digital camera technology has come a long way. Even so, the golden rule of electronics still stands. Safely eject your memory card and then reinsert it. Sometimes pins don’t align correctly with card readers. Other times, there was just an issue with reading the software. This tried and true remedy works wonders.

Insider Tip

Digital camera owners should be aware that their camera brand is likely willing to walk them through errors, as well.

Try Reformatting the Card

A corrupted memory card can destroy your RAW files, video files, audio files, and anything else kept on your storage device. Moreover, the camera won’t be able to record pictures. Reformatting can put you back on the right track to import photos with ease. If it comes to this, try using recovery software to bring back your original photos.

Contact the Device Manufacturer

Memory card manufacturers have a reputation to uphold. Contacting them can result in a new card being sent free of charge. Digital camera owners should be aware that their camera brand is likely willing to walk them through errors, as well. This error message could be coming from either end of the equation. Modern cameras have become complicated, but you can resolve many software issues that pop up with a bit of direction.

Warning

Not formatting a memory card correctly can cause a malfunction between the card and the camera.

F.A.Q.

How do you delete photos from a memory card?

There are a few ways you can delete photos from your memory card. If you’re on Windows OS, try the following:

  • Open up “This PC” in File Explorer
  • Look under “Devices”
  • Locate and double click your memory card
  • Delete your photos as necessary

How do you avoid duplicate file names?

To avoid duplicate file names, put a system in place that makes sense to you. File names typically go something like this: Client-Name_Session-Date_PhotoNumber. Overwrite all duplicate file names.


Why does my SD card say full without having any files?

Most memory cards just need to be reformatted if they’re giving an error message like this one. You should take digital camera errors into account if reformatting your memory card doesn’t work.


What if my SD card won’t mount?

This is a common memory card error. Rebooting your computer or ejecting and reinserting your memory card are both recommended fixes.


STAT: The statistic depicts the wholesale sales of digital camera accessories in the United States from 2018 to 2022. In 2019, digital camera accessories wholesale sales in the United States were estimated to amount to 83 million U.S. dollars. (source)

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