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How to Recover Photos and Files from Your Phone: Step-by-Step Guide with the Best Apps

Recovering deleted photos and videos can feel like a race against time, especially when those files capture irreplaceable memories like family vacations, graduations, or your pet’s quirky moments.

Losing them to an accidental deletion, a device crash, or a formatting mishap can be heartbreaking. However, the good news is that with today’s technology, you have a fighting chance to retrieve those precious moments.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical, up-to-date methods to recover photos and videos from your smartphone, computer, or external storage.

Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user, our step-by-step advice, featuring trusted tools will empower you to take action. Ready to rescue your memories? Let’s dive in!


First Steps to Take After Deleting Photos or Videos

As soon as you realize you’ve deleted something important, act quickly to maximize your chances of recovery. Here’s what to do:

📴 Stop Using the Device: Avoid taking new photos, downloading apps, or saving files, as these actions could overwrite the deleted data.

🗑️ Check the Recycle Bin or Trash: On computers, deleted files often go to the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac). On smartphones, check the “Recently Deleted” folder in your gallery app.

☁️ Look for Cloud Backups: Services like Google Photos, iCloud, or Dropbox may have copies of your files if you enabled automatic backups.

⚙️ Turn Off Auto-Updates: Prevent apps or system updates from writing new data to your device.

By taking these steps, you create a safer environment for recovery. Now, let’s explore the tools that can help you recover photos and videos.


Top Tools to Recover Deleted Photos and Videos

Several apps and software solutions are designed to recover deleted photos and videos. Below, we’ll detail five popular options, their features, pros, cons, and how to use them effectively. Each tool has unique strengths, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

1. DiskDigger: A Versatile Option for Android and PC

DiskDigger is a top app for recovering photos and videos on Android and Windows. The free version does basic recovery; the Pro adds more file types. It scans internal memory or SD cards (deep scan with root). On PC, it works with hard drives and USBs.

Pros:

  • Free version recovers JPG and PNG photos effectively.
  • User-friendly interface with preview options.
  • Supports saving files to Google Drive, Dropbox, or email.

Cons:

  • Root access required for deep scans on Android.
  • Free version is limited to photo recovery; videos and other files require the Pro version.

2. EaseUS MobiSaver: A Lifesaver for iOS and Android

EaseUS MobiSaver is a recovery tool for iOS and Android, also available on Windows and Mac. It recovers photos, videos, contacts, and messages. It scans your device or backups and lets you preview files before recovery.

Pros:

  • Supports multiple platforms (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac).
  • Recovers from device memory, iCloud, or iTunes backups.
  • Simple, beginner-friendly interface.

Cons:

  • Full features require a paid version.
  • Recovery success depends on whether data has been overwritten.

3. Dumpster: The Android Recycle Bin

Dumpster is like a “Recycle Bin for Android,” backing up files before deletion. It’s ideal for preventing data loss. It saves deleted files locally or in the cloud and lets you restore them easily. It can also scan for files deleted before installation.

Pros:

  • Automatic backup feature prevents data loss.
  • No root access required for basic recovery.
  • User-friendly and ideal for non-tech-savvy users.

Cons:

  • Takes up significant storage space for backups.
  • Premium version needed for cloud storage and ad-free experience.

4. Dr.Fone: A Comprehensive Recovery Suite

Dr.Fone by Wondershare is a reliable recovery tool for iOS and Android, restoring photos, videos, messages, and more. It scans your device or backups to find deleted files and supports many file types across various devices.

Pros:

  • Recovers multiple file types beyond photos and videos.
  • Intuitive interface with clear instructions.
  • Supports direct recovery from devices or backups.

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to free alternatives.
  • Free trial offers limited functionality.

5. Tenorshare UltData: Advanced iOS and Android Recovery

Tenorshare UltData is a strong recovery tool for iOS and Android, especially useful for iPhone users with iCloud or iTunes backups. It scans your device or backups to retrieve deleted files and supports over 35 file types, including WhatsApp and Instagram data.

Pros:

  • High success rate for iOS recovery.
  • Supports recovery without root on Android.
  • Preview feature ensures you recover the right files.

Cons:

  • Paid version required for full functionality.
  • Android recovery is less comprehensive than iOS.

Comparison Table: Top Recovery Apps

AppPlatformFree VersionSupported File Types
DiskDiggerAndroidYes (limited)JPG, PNG, MP4 (Pro)
EaseUS MobiSaverAndroid, iOSYes (limited)Photos, videos, contacts
DumpsterAndroidYes (limited)Photos, videos, documents
Dr.FoneAndroid, iOSYes (limited)Photos, videos, messages
Tenorshare UltDataAndroid, iOSYes (limited)Photos, videos, app data

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Data Loss

Once you recover photos and videos, take steps to prevent future losses:

☁️ Enable Cloud Backups: Use Google Photos, iCloud, or Dropbox to automatically back up your media.

💽 Regular Local Backups: Save files to an external hard drive or USB regularly.

🛡️ Use Dumpster for Android: Its auto-backup feature acts as a safety net.

👀 Check Before Deleting: Double-check files before deleting to avoid accidents.

🔧 Update Your Device: Keep your device’s software up to date to minimize crashes that cause data loss.

By adopting these habits, you’ll reduce the risk of losing precious memories.

Common Myths About Photo Recovery

Let’s debunk a few myths to set realistic expectations:

Myth: Deleted files are gone forever.
Truth: Files can often be recovered unless overwritten.

Myth: Recovery apps always require root or jailbreak.
Truth: Tools like Dumpster and UltData work without root on Android, and iOS tools use backups.

Myth: Free apps are ineffective.
Truth: DiskDigger’s free version can recover photos effectively, though paid versions offer more features.

Understanding these truths helps you approach recovery with confidence.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Memories

Losing photos and videos can be distressing, but with tools like DiskDigger, EaseUS MobiSaver, Dumpster, Dr.Fone, and Tenorshare UltData, you have powerful options to recover photos and videos.

By acting quickly, choosing the right tool, and following our steps, you can often retrieve those irreplaceable memories. Moreover, adopting preventative measures like regular backups ensures you’re prepared for the future.

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