Move Pictures folder back to default location Windows 11

Question

I just got a new desktop with Windows 11 which I am new to. In setting everything up, I opened OneDrive just to see the options and it immediately began copying all my folders/files to it which I did not want. I got it stopped but some of my files are in the local OneDrive on my computer. I was able to move my Desktop back to c:\users<username> with technical support but not Pictures, although I can still access them as they are locally stored. The path to them is c:\users<myusername>\OneDrive. I would like to get them back to C:\Users<myusername>. There is not a Pictures icon under my username, as it is now in OneDrive (shown as a mountain with a star in the sky). I want to move my pictures back to where they originally were. In another windows 11 forum the instructions are:

"Right click on the Pictures folder in the navigation pane of File Explorer where pictures are located,( which is now in OneDrive folder) and click on Properties>location tab to see the path. (which is now c:\users<myusername>OneDrive). Then click on the Restore Default button. If I get a pop up that says "the folder C:\users<username>Pictures does not exist would you like to create one"?, I am supposed to click yes, and then yes again to move all files. I am hesitant to do this without reassurance that it is the correct procedure. I would appreciate any help. Thanks.

Answer 1

Yes, you can move the pictures that are still in the OneDrive folder to your C:\users\your username\Pictures folder.

After that, you should be able to delete the other folders.

Answer 2

Beautiful!! That should do it. Restart the computer and check.

Answer 3

Yes, if you follow my instruction, it will work. Yes, you can feel free to share a screenshot after you finish the edit so I can double check for you.

Answer 4

Should I copy all my picture folders to my desktop first into a new folder? there is about 30 GB worth. I guess I am fearful if I uninstall OneDrive I may lose my pictures, although it says they are stored locally. I do have them on the previous computer though that I migrated from. Thanks for your help After I get your answer, I will follow your steps

Answer 5

Ok, if you don't want to turn it back on, then the above method will not work, which is the most organic way to do it without manipulation. I understand you don't want to go that route. We will do it a different way then.

First of all, I would like for you to go to Settings > Apps, and uninstall OneDrive all together.

Then, Please type regedit in the search on the taskbar to launch registry editor, and go to this path, then take a screenshot and share in your reply.

Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders

Once I get the screenshot, I will show you how to edit it next.