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How to Fix Cant View Photos Error on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Sometimes, when you try to open photos on your Windows 10 computer, you might see an error saying you can’t view the photos. This can be frustrating, especially if you need to access important pictures quickly. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix this problem without needing advanced technical skills.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-follow steps to solve the “Can’t View Photos” error on Windows 10. Each step is explained clearly to help you understand why it matters and how to do it.

By following these instructions, you can get your photos opening normally again in no time. Let’s get started!

No special tools or software are needed—just your Windows 10 PC and a few minutes of your time.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before trying the fixes, please check these points to save time:

  • Make sure your photos are not corrupted by trying to open them on another device.
  • Check if your Windows 10 is up to date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Confirm that you have enough storage space on your computer, as lack of space can cause apps to malfunction.
  • Try opening the photos with a different app, like Paint or another photo viewer, to see if the problem is specific to the default Photos app.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

This is the simplest step but often effective. Restarting your PC refreshes the system and clears temporary glitches that might prevent photos from opening.

  1. Click on the Start button (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.
  4. After your PC restarts, try opening the photos again.

Step 2: Reset the Photos App

If restarting doesn’t help, the Photos app itself might have an issue. Resetting it will clear its cache and settings but won’t delete your photos.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on Apps.
  3. In the list of apps, find and click on Photos.
  4. Click on Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click Reset.
  6. Confirm the reset if prompted.
  7. Try opening your photos again.

Step 3: Update the Photos App

Sometimes, bugs in the Photos app can cause errors. Updating to the latest version can fix these bugs.

  1. Open the Microsoft Store by clicking its icon on the taskbar or searching in the Start menu.
  2. Click on the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner and select Downloads and updates.
  3. Click Get updates to update all your apps, including Photos.
  4. Once updated, try opening your photos again.

Step 4: Reinstall the Photos App

If resetting and updating don’t work, reinstalling the Photos app can fix deeper issues.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter:
    3. Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Remove-AppxPackage
  3. This will uninstall the Photos app.
  4. Now, open the Microsoft Store, search for Microsoft Photos, and click Get to reinstall it.
  5. After reinstalling, try opening your photos again.

Step 5: Change the Default Photo Viewer

If the Photos app still won’t open your pictures, try changing the default app to another photo viewer temporarily.

  1. Right-click on any photo file.
  2. Select Open with > Choose another app.
  3. Pick an app like Paint or Windows Photo Viewer.
  4. Check the box for Always use this app to open .jpg (or your photo file type) files.
  5. Click OK and see if your photo opens.

Why This Helps

This step helps identify if the issue is with the Photos app or the photo files themselves. Using a different app confirms where the problem lies.

Step 6: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix problems with apps like Photos.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  3. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Find and select Windows Store Apps.
  5. Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why can’t I view photos in the Photos app but they open in other apps?

A: This usually means the Photos app has a problem, such as corrupted settings or bugs. Resetting or reinstalling the app often fixes this.

Q: Will resetting the Photos app delete my pictures?

A: No, resetting the app only clears its settings and cache. Your pictures remain safe on your computer.

Q: What if photos don’t open in any app?

A: The photo files might be corrupted or damaged. Try opening them on another device or restoring from a backup.

Q: Can outdated Windows cause this error?

A: Yes, running an outdated version of Windows 10 can lead to app compatibility issues. Always keep your system updated.

Q: Is there a way to prevent this error in the future?

A: Regularly update your apps and Windows, avoid abrupt shutdowns, and keep backups of important photos.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still cannot view your photos, consider the following options:

  • Use a third-party photo viewer app like IrfanView or XnView to open your pictures.
  • Run a system file check to repair corrupted Windows files:
    1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
    2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
    3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for help: Microsoft Support.
  • Consider restoring your system to an earlier point where photos were opening correctly using System Restore.

Conclusion

Not being able to view photos on Windows 10 can be annoying, but most issues are easy to fix. Start with simple steps like restarting your computer and resetting the Photos app. If needed, update or reinstall the app and try alternative photo viewers.

Understanding why these steps work helps you troubleshoot similar problems in the future. Always keep your system and apps updated to prevent errors. If all else fails, using third-party apps or official support resources will help you recover your photo viewing ability.

With these clear steps, you should be able to enjoy your photos on Windows 10 without trouble again.

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