How to Recover Deleted Files from GoPro?

“Oh NO! I accidentally deleted GoPro videos. Is there any way to recover deleted files from GoPro? I'm in desperate need of getting those memories back!"

If you have ever found yourself in such a situation and frantically searched for a way to recover deleted GoPro video or other files, then rest assured, you are not alone.

GoPro cameras can turn into perfect tools to help you grab the most fascinating moments of your life, but like any other digital device, they are not safe from data loss. Whether you have deleted files mistakenly, formatted your SD card, or there are corruption issues, it can be overwhelming to think that you might lose some very precious memories.

The good news is that deleted files can mostly be recovered from GoPro cameras. This step-by-step guide will help you to recover deleted files GoPro with several techniques—from using dedicated software for GoPro recovery to the system's built-in tools. We will cover what causes data loss, detailed recovery steps, and finally, provide some tips for recovering lost GoPro videos and photos.

Part 1: GoPro File Recovery: Initial Steps to Take After File Deletion

When you realize you've lost important files from your GoPro, it's crucial to act quickly and follow these initial steps to maximize your chances of successful recovery:

• Stop using the GoPro and SD card immediately: The moment you notice files are missing, stop using both the camera and the SD card. Continuing to use the device can overwrite the deleted data, making recovery more difficult or impossible.
• Remove the SD card: Carefully remove the SD card from your GoPro camera. Avoid any physical damage.
• Don't format the card: Resist the urge to format the SD card, even if prompted by your computer or camera. Formatting will further complicate the recovery process.
• Don't save new files to the card: Avoid saving any new files to the SD card, as this can overwrite the space where your deleted files are still stored.
• Keep the card dry and at room temperature: Protect the SD card from extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage while you prepare for the recovery process.
• Assess the situation: Try to remember what types of files you lost (videos, photos, or both) and approximately how many. This information can be helpful when using recovery software.
• Check your computer's recycle bin: If you've been transferring files to your computer, there's a slim chance the deleted files might be in the recycle bin. Check there before proceeding with more advanced recovery methods.

By following these initial steps, you'll give yourself the best chance of successfully recovering your deleted GoPro files. In the next section, we'll explore the major causes of GoPro data loss to help you understand how these issues occur and how to prevent them in the future.

Part 2: Major Causes of GoPro Data Loss

Understanding the reasons behind data loss can help you prevent future incidents and choose the most appropriate recovery method. Here's a table outlining the major causes of GoPro data loss:

Now that we've covered the initial steps to take after file deletion and explored the major causes of GoPro data loss, we're ready to dive into the various methods for recovering deleted files from your GoPro.

In the next section, we'll start with one of the most effective solutions: using specialized GoPro recovery software.

Part 3: How to Recover Deleted Files from GoPro

In this section, we'll explore four different methods to recover deleted files from your GoPro. Each method has its strengths, and you may need to try multiple approaches depending on your specific situation.

Method 1: Use Wondershare Recoverit for GoPro File Recovery (Recommended)

Wondershare Recoverit is a powerful and user-friendly GoPro recovery software that can help you recover deleted GoPro videos, photos, and other files.

Here are four strong reasons why this method is better than the other methods for GoPro file recovery:

• Ease of Use: Wondershare Recoverit has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for anyone to recover deleted files from GoPro, even if they're not tech-savvy. Other methods like PhotoRec or CHKDSK can be more complicated and require technical knowledge.
• Higher Success Rate: Recoverit is specifically designed for data recovery and often has a higher success rate in recovering deleted GoPro video and photos compared to general-purpose tools like Unstoppable Copier or built-in utilities like CHKDSK.
• Preview Feature: Unlike other methods, Recoverit allows you to preview recoverable files before actually recovering them. This helps you ensure you're getting back the exact files you need, saving time and storage space.
• Versatility: Recoverit can handle various types of data loss scenarios, including accidental deletion, formatting, and even some levels of corruption. It works on different GoPro models and SD card types, making it more versatile than methods like CHKDSK which only addresses certain file system issues.

Here's how to use it to recover deleted files from GoPro:

Step 1: Install Wondershare Recoverit on your computer. Connect your GoPro SD card to your computer using a card reader. Launch Recoverit and select the SD card as the location to scan. Click "Start".

Step 2: Recoverit will now scan the selected external drive to recover deleted files.

Step 3: Once done, preview the recoverable files once the scan is complete. Select the files you want to recover and click "Recover" to save them to your computer.

Recoverit is particularly effective for GoPro file recovery because it supports various file formats used by GoPro cameras and can recover files from formatted or corrupted SD cards.

Method 2: Extract GoPro Files With Unstoppable Copier

Unstoppable Copier is a free tool that can help recover files from damaged or corrupted storage devices. While not specifically designed for GoPro recovery, it can be useful in some cases:

Step 1: Install Unstoppable Copier on your computer from the official website. Connect your GoPro SD card to your computer. Open Unstoppable Copier and select your SD card as the source.

Step 2: Choose a destination folder on your computer for the recovered files. Click "Copy" to start the GoPro video recovery process:

This method is particularly useful if your SD card is showing signs of physical damage or severe corruption.

Method 3: Use PhotoRec to Extract Photos Online

PhotoRec is a free, open-source software that can recover lost files from various storage devices, including GoPro SD cards:

Step 1: Install PhotoRec on your computer. Connect your GoPro SD card to your computer.

Run PhotoRec and select your SD card from the list of drives.

Step 2: Choose the file system type (usually FAT32 for GoPro SD cards). Select the types of files you want to recover.

Step 3: Choose a destination folder for the recovered files. Wait for the recovery process to complete.

PhotoRec is particularly good at recovering photo and video files, making it a solid choice for GoPro data recovery.

Method 4: Fix Your Corrupted GoPro SD Card With CHKDSK

If your GoPro SD card is corrupted, you may be able to fix it using the built-in CHKDSK tool on Windows:

Step 1: Connect your SD card to your computer. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2: Type "chkdsk X: /f" (replace X with the drive letter of your SD card) and press Enter. Wait for the process to complete.

While this method doesn't directly recover deleted files, it can help fix file system issues that may be preventing access to your GoPro files.

Part 4: Additional Tips for GoPro File Recovery

To increase your chances of successful recovery and prevent future data loss, consider these seven additional tips:

• Use High-Quality SD Cards: Invest in reputable, high-speed SD cards specifically recommended for GoPro cameras.
• Proper Ejection: Always properly eject the SD card from your computer before removing it physically.
• Keep Your GoPro Updated: Regularly update your GoPro's firmware to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: While GoPros are designed for action, try to protect them from extreme temperatures and moisture when possible.
• Use Multiple SD Cards: For extended shoots, use multiple SD cards instead of deleting files to make space.
• Learn Your GoPro: Familiarize yourself with your GoPro's settings and file management system to avoid accidental deletions.

Reveal the Secret of GoPro Video Recovery:

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Conclusion

If you accidentally delete important videos or photos from your GoPro, it can be really annoying. However, there are several methods for GoPro file recovery to get them back. Whether you accidentally deleted the files or your SD card caused the loss, tools like Wondershare Recoverit, Unstoppable Copier, PhotoRec, and built-in utilities like CHKDSK can help you recover your data.

To increase your chances of successfully recovering your GoPro files, act quickly and stop using the SD card once you notice the files are missing. By following the advice in this guide, you'll be better prepared to deal with data loss and continue recording exciting moments with your GoPro.