Need help

Question

I have a bunch of photos and videos in my onedrive recycle bin and when I restore them I can't find them

Answer 1

They weren't in files

Answer 2

Hello Phoenix,

Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

Thanks for reaching out! If you've restored photos and videos from your OneDrive recycle bin but can't find them, here are a few steps to help locate them:

### Where Restored Files Go

When you restore items from the OneDrive recycle bin, they are typically returned to their original location—the folder they were in before deletion. If that folder no longer exists, OneDrive may recreate it or place the files in your root OneDrive directory.

### Steps to Find Restored Files

1. Check the OneDrive root folder:

   - Go to OneDrive online.

   - Look in the main directory (not inside any folders).

2. Use the search bar:

   - Type part of the file name (if you remember it) or use keywords like IMG, VID, or file extensions like .jpg, .mp4.

3. Sort by “Recently modified” or “Recently added”:

   - This can help surface the restored files quickly.

4. Check the “Photos” tab:

   - OneDrive sometimes categorizes media files under the “Photos” section even if they’re stored in different folders.

5. Check the “Shared” or “Personal Vault” folders:

   - If you had moved files to special folders before deletion, they might have been restored there.

Best regards,

Ami | Microsoft Community Support Specialist