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Move Pictures folder back to default location Windows 11

Anonymous
2024-09-24T21:05:47+00:00

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.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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  1. EmilyS726 230.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-09-26T23:54:39+00:00

    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.

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  1. EmilyS726 230.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-09-26T23:23:36+00:00

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

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  1. EmilyS726 230.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-09-26T23:02:39+00:00

    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.

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  1. EmilyS726 230.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-09-26T22:16:21+00:00

    You shouldn't lose photos due to uninstalling OneDrive. Worst scenario - they are in the cloud and you have to go through website to download them.

    But if we want to be extra safe, you can if you have room on your computer. I would not use move option. Instead, copy - so that you have both on desktop and pictures folders. But truely, I don't think it is necessary but just for peace of mind.

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-09-26T22:08:03+00:00

    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

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