What This Covers
- Targeted for SD card photo, video, and document recovery
- Supports common SD card file systems: FAT32 and exFAT
- Deep Scan helps in harder recovery scenarios
- Preview before recovery to reduce guesswork
SD Card Recovery
Recover deleted photos, videos, and important files.
Refindo supports SD card recovery workflows for accidental deletion and format scenarios. Run a scan, preview files first, then recover selected items to a different destination.
Recovery Workflow
- Insert the SD card and select it from available devices.
- Run Quick Scan and review initial results.
- Use Deep Scan when files are missing from quick results.
- Recover selected files to another disk for safety.
Best Practices
- Stop using the SD card immediately after data loss.
- Do not shoot new photos/videos before recovery.
- Use a reliable card reader and stable connection.
- Recover to another drive, then verify recovered files.
What to Know Before You Scan
Camera card recovery
SD cards from cameras and drones often contain large photo and video files. After loss, the most important step is to stop recording new media to the same card.
- JPEG, RAW-style image files, and camera videos may require Deep Scan when folder records are gone.
- Long video files are more sensitive to fragmentation and interruption.
- A dedicated card reader is usually more stable than connecting through the camera.
FAT32 and exFAT behavior
Most SD cards use FAT32 or exFAT. These file systems can be recoverable, but overwritten clusters quickly reduce the chance of getting complete files back.
- Small photos may recover more cleanly than very large split video recordings.
- Cards that were formatted in-camera should be scanned before reuse.
- If a card shows the wrong capacity, has I/O errors, or disconnects, hardware health may be the limiting factor.
SD Card Recovery Guidance
Stop shooting before you scan
New photos and videos are the biggest risk after SD card data loss. Even a few new clips can overwrite deleted media, especially on cards that were already close to full.
Use a stable card reader
A card reader is usually more reliable than connecting a camera or drone directly. If the scan stops or the card disappears, switch reader or port before assuming the files are gone.
Check large videos first
Long camera and drone videos are harder to recover cleanly than small photos because they can be fragmented or interrupted. Preview and file size checks help you prioritize the clips that are most likely to play correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover deleted photos from an SD card?
Yes. If the card is still detectable and data has not been heavily overwritten, scan and preview can help identify recoverable photos.
Does SD card recovery support video files too?
Yes. Refindo can scan for recoverable videos and documents in addition to photos on supported SD card file systems.
What should I do first after SD card file loss?
Stop using the card immediately and run a scan as soon as possible. Avoid taking new photos before recovery.
Related Recovery Guides
Start with a Free Scan
Check recoverable files first, then decide whether to proceed with recovery.