The exposed platters of a hard drive.
We’ll be completely honest: We’re writing this article because our customers frequently mention “lost wedding photos” in their file requests. (For most standard data recovery cases, Datarecovery.com does not charge if the client’s requested files are unrecoverable).
In truth, there’s nothing different about the data recovery process for wedding photos as opposed to, say, the data recovery process for Outlook PSTs. In fact, all data recovery attempts follow the same general process:
- The storage device (a hard drive, solid-state drive, etc.) is evaluated by a professional data recovery engineer to determine the chances of recovery.
- The customer approves the quoted price.
- Physical issues are treated and corrected. Components may be swapped out, repaired, or reconfigured.
- The device is cloned, which creates a perfect copy of the data.
- Logical procedures are used to restore the data (in this case, images and videos) to a working state.
- The data is returned to the client.
That process is roughly the same for every case. Logical (software-based) procedures may vary depending on the type of data, and the requirements for a successful case result may change.
For example, with images and videos, the file must generally be completely recovered in order to prevent artifacts that would render the content unusable. Otherwise, wedding photo recovery is exactly the same as every other type of data recovery.
But if you’re reading this article, there’s a good chance that you’re panicking; you’ve lost the only copies of photos or videos from your big day, and you want fast answers.
If that’s the case, there’s some good news: Recovery rates for consumer media (hard drives, solid state drives, smartphones, and USB thumb drives) are quite high. As long as you take immediate steps to prevent permanent data loss, you’ve got a good chance of restoring your photos.
Here’s everything you need to know about the data recovery process for lost wedding photos and videos. To speak with an expert, call 1-800-237-4200 or set up a risk-free evaluation online.
Don’t attempt to recover your own photos (no, seriously, don’t).
Do-it-yourself data recovery attempts can severely limit your chances of a successful case result. We’re not trying to frighten you into giving us your business — any reputable data recovery provider can take steps to treat your case non-destructively, without taking unnecessary risks with your data.
Unfortunately, DIY data recovery is risky:
- Operating a damaged hard drive, even for a few seconds, can cause the read/write heads to contact the platters that store your data. Platter damage is irreversible and permanent.
- Installing data recovery software may overwrite key fragments of deleted or corrupt files, rendering the files unusable.
- Treating physical issues requires specialized tools, including a certified cleanroom and firmware repair equipment. Computer repair shops do not have access to these technologies; only dedicated data recovery laboratories are capable of attempting repairs.
If you are absolutely 100% sure that you’ve lost data due to a logical (non-physical) issue, and you’re absolutely opposed to using a professional data recovery service, you should make a clone of your device before attempting recovery. Read our guide to cloning storage devices with ddrescue.
But if you only have one copy of the data, you usually have one chance at data recovery. Work with a qualified data recovery partner.
Related: Before Using Data Recovery Software, Read This
Choose a data recovery provider that has appropriately outfitted laboratories.
Not all data recovery companies have equivalent skills, equipment, or track records. At minimum, your data recovery provider should have:
- A certified cleanroom, clean-flow benches, or equivalent technology to limit contamination. Learn why cleanrooms are important for data recovery work.
- Computers capable of repairing or rewriting the firmware for hard drives, solid-state drives, and other devices. Learn more about firmware repair.
- Engineers who have substantial experience with your media.
Check whether your provider can provide references or testimonials from past clients. For additional tips, read: Finding the Best Data Recovery Company.
Don’t panic, but don’t wait too long to seek help.
If you keep your storage device powered off, the chances of recovery are usually high — but the best practice is to get an evaluation as soon as possible.
- Make a list of important files. It’s okay if you don’t know file names, but try to provide as much information as possible. For example: “There are a few hundred photos in an album marked ‘wedding,’ and most of the files are JPGs.”
- Provide as many details about the issue. Note any error messages, unusual noises, or other symptoms that preceded the failure.
- If you’re shipping your device, follow the data recovery provider’s instructions and use sufficient packaging.
- If you’re dropping off your device in-person, make sure that the data recovery process will be performed on site. Datarecovery.com operates full-service laboratories at every location — we don’t operate shipping offices.
Wedding photos and videos are priceless, but reputable data recovery companies will provide a firm, reasonable price quote before beginning work. At Datarecovery.com, we provide our clients with peace of mind by offering free evaluations and supporting every case with our no data, no charge guarantee: If the files you need aren’t recovered, there’s no charge for the attempt.
To get started, set up a free evaluation online or call 1-800-237-4200 to speak with an expert.
