If you are trying to open a picture using Photo Viewer on Windows 11 and see an error message, it can be frustrating. This problem is quite common and usually easy to fix with a few simple steps. No need to worry, as you can resolve this issue without technical expertise.
Windows Photo Viewer is a default app for viewing images, but sometimes it stops working due to system glitches or settings errors. This guide will walk you through clear and easy troubleshooting steps to get your photos opening again quickly.
Each step is explained in detail, so even if you are new to Windows, you can follow along without confusion. Let’s start by checking some quick basics before moving on to more advanced solutions.
By the end of this article, you should be able to fix the Photo Viewer error and open your pictures without any trouble.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks
Before diving into troubleshooting, please make sure of the following:
- Check if the photo file you are trying to open is not corrupted or damaged. Try opening the same photo on another device if possible.
- Ensure that your Windows 11 system is up to date. Updates often fix bugs and improve app compatibility.
- Restart your computer. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches causing the error.
- Verify that you are using the default Windows Photo Viewer or the Photos app to open images, and not a third-party application that could cause conflicts.
Step 1: Set Windows Photo Viewer as the Default App
Sometimes the error occurs because the default app for opening images is not correctly set. To fix this, you need to set Windows Photo Viewer or the Photos app as the default program for image files.
- Click the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to Apps > Default apps.
- Scroll down and find Photos or Windows Photo Viewer (if available).
- Click on it, then look for file types like
.jpg,.png, and.bmp. - Click each file type and select Photos or Windows Photo Viewer as the default app.
- Try opening your photo again to see if the error is resolved.
Why this matters: Setting the right default app ensures Windows knows which program to use to open your pictures, preventing the “can’t open” error.
Step 2: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
If you are using the Photos app and it won’t open pictures, the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter can help identify and fix problems automatically.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Store Apps in the list and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
- Restart your computer after the troubleshooter finishes, then check if the photo opens.
Why this matters: This tool scans for common issues with Microsoft Store apps, including Photos, and can fix errors without manual intervention.
Step 3: Repair or Reset the Photos App
If the Photos app is corrupted or not working properly, repairing or resetting it can help. Resetting will remove app data but not your photos.
- Open Settings and go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Search for Photos in the list and click on the three dots next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down to the Repair button and click it. Wait for the process to complete.
- If repairing doesn’t help, click Reset. Confirm any prompts that appear.
- Try opening your photo again.
Why this matters: Repairing fixes minor app issues, while resetting restores the app to default settings, making sure no corrupted files remain.
Step 4: Check File Permissions
Sometimes, the error happens because your user account doesn’t have permission to access the photo file.
- Right-click the image file and select Properties.
- Go to the Security tab.
- Click Edit and check if your user account has Read permissions.
- If not, select your user and check the Allow box for Read.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Try opening the image again.
Why this matters: Without read permission, Windows cannot open the file, resulting in an error.
Step 5: Reinstall the Photos App
If none of the above works, reinstalling the Photos app can help resolve deeper problems.
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
- Wait for the app to uninstall.
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for Microsoft Photos and click Install.
- After installation, try opening your photos again.
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Remove-AppxPackageWhy this matters: Reinstalling replaces all the app files, fixing issues caused by corruption or missing files.
Alternative Method: Use a Different Photo Viewer
If you continue to face issues, consider using a different image viewer app. There are many free and reliable photo viewers available, such as IrfanView or XnView. These alternatives can open almost all image formats and sometimes offer better performance.
FAQs
Why does Photo Viewer say it can’t open my picture?
This usually happens due to file corruption, incorrect default app settings, or permission issues on Windows 11.
Can I fix this without reinstalling Windows?
Yes. Most Photo Viewer errors can be fixed using the steps above without needing to reinstall your operating system.
Is it safe to reset the Photos app?
Yes. Resetting only clears the app’s settings and cache but does not delete your photos.
What if the photo file itself is corrupted?
If the file is corrupted, no photo viewer will open it properly. Try recovering the file from a backup or use file repair software.
Can outdated Windows updates cause this issue?
Sometimes, yes. Keeping Windows updated ensures compatibility and bug fixes, so always install the latest updates.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and still cannot open pictures, consider the following options:
- Use the Windows 11 official support page for more troubleshooting tips.
- Create a new user account and check if the issue persists. Sometimes user profiles get corrupted.
- Contact Microsoft Support directly for personalized assistance.
- Consider using third-party image recovery or repair tools if you suspect file corruption.
Conclusion
Photo Viewer errors in Windows 11 can be annoying but are usually fixable with simple steps. Start by checking basic settings like default apps and permissions, then use built-in troubleshooters and repair options. Reinstalling the Photos app is a more advanced step that often resolves persistent problems.
Remember, keeping your system updated and backing up your photos regularly can prevent many issues. If all else fails, official Microsoft resources and alternative photo viewers provide reliable solutions. Follow this guide carefully, and you should be able to enjoy your pictures without any viewing errors.