How to recover permanently deleted Google Photos

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for recovering deleted Google Photos.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Recovering permanently deleted Google Photos can be challenging, but there are several methods to attempt restoration. Users can check the Trash folder within Google Photos or utilize backup options if available.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before attempting to recover permanently deleted Google Photos, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •A Google account with access to Google Photos.
  • •Internet connection to access Google Photos online.
  • •Updated version of the Google Photos app (if using mobile).
  • •Backup of Google Photos enabled to increase recovery chances.

Method 1: Restore from Trash

This method is applicable if the photos were deleted recently and are still in the Trash folder.
  • •Step 1: Open Google Photos on your device or browser.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Trash' from the left sidebar menu (or tap the 'Library' tab and select 'Trash' on mobile).
  • •Step 3: Locate the photos you wish to recover, select them by clicking the checkbox or tapping them.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Restore' at the top right corner of the screen to recover the selected photos.
  • •Step 5: Verify recovery by checking the 'Photos' section to see if the images reappear.
  • •Step 6: If the photos do not appear, they may have been permanently deleted.

For Windows 11

Follow these specific steps for Windows 11 users:
  • •Step 1: Open the Microsoft Edge or Chrome browser.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to photos.google.com and log in to your Google account.
  • •Step 3: Click on the 'Trash' icon located in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Select the photos and click 'Restore' to recover them.

For Windows 10

Follow these specific steps for Windows 10 users:
  • •Step 1: Open Google Chrome or any preferred browser.
  • •Step 2: Go to photos.google.com and sign in.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Trash' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Select the photos you want to restore and click 'Restore'.

Method 2: Use Google Drive Backup

If you have Google Drive backup enabled, you may recover deleted photos from there.
  • •Step 1: Open Google Drive on your device or browser.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'My Drive' and search for any folders named 'Google Photos'.
  • •Step 3: Check for any backed-up images that were deleted from Google Photos.
  • •Step 4: Right-click on the images and select 'Download' to restore them to your device.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the recovery process, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'No items in Trash' - Solution: Photos may have been permanently deleted or the Trash has been emptied.
  • •Issue: 'Photos not appearing after restore' - Fix: Ensure you are logged into the correct Google account.
  • •Problem: 'Unable to access Google Photos' - Workaround: Check your internet connection and try refreshing the page.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Google Photos experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Z (Windows) or Command + Z (Mac) - Undoes the last action in Google Photos.
  • •Command line: N/A - Google Photos does not support command line operations.
  • •Hidden feature: Use the search bar to find photos by date, location, or people.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly back up your photos to prevent permanent loss.