If you’re experiencing issues with opening images on your Windows 10/11 PC and are confronted with the ‘Photo can’t open this picture’ error, this guide is tailored for you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various troubleshooting steps to fix this common problem efficiently.
Troubleshooting ‘Cannot Open This Picture’ on Windows 10/11
Windows 11 brought with it a new and improved version of Microsoft Photos, but that doesn’t exempt it from occasional hiccups when opening certain image types. Commonly, issues arise when trying to open HEIC files—a format typically used by iPhones to keep photo sizes in check—or when dealing with unusually large JPG or PNG files. In some instances, even RAW image formats like CR2 or NEF can trigger this error.
Ensuring Microsoft Photos is Up-to-Date
Occasionally, bugs may be fixed with software updates. To ensure optimal performance and potentially resolve your issue, update the Photos app as follows:
- Navigate to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click on ‘Check for updates.’
- If updates are available for the Photos app, select and install them.
- After updating, restart your PC to complete the process.
Alternative Applications for Opening Your Images
Note that Windows Photos supports a handful of file formats such as JPEG, TIFF, PNG, GIF, BMP, DIB, and WDP. For other formats, consider using different applications like Adobe Photoshop, IrfanView, or other specialized photo viewers and editors.
Converting Images to Compatible Formats
If the file format is incompatible with the Photos app, converting the image to JPEG, TIFF, or PNG might be the solution. Plenty of online converters and software tools are available for this purpose.
Utilizing Photo Repair Software for Corrupted Images
Images that fail to open in any application may be corrupted. Should the usual fixes prove ineffective, photo repair software such as Stellar Repair for Photo may be your best bet. This software is designed to repair a wide array of image file formats, including popular RAW camera file formats.
Repair Corrupted Images with Stellar Repair for Photo:
- Download and install Stellar Repair for Photo software.
- Launch the application and click ‘Add File’ to add the corrupted images.
- Press ‘Repair’ to commence the repair process.
- Preview the repaired images and save them to your preferred location.
Interferences from Mobile Phone Backup Software
Interactions between a mobile phone’s photo backup software and your PC might be the culprit. Check if uninstalling such backup software remedies the issue.
Removing Smartphone Backup Software:
- Press the Windows + R keys, type ‘appwiz.cpl’, and hit Enter.
- Search for the backup software related to your phone (e.g., Nokia Suite, Samsung Kies, Huawei HiSuite) in the Programs and Features list, then click ‘Uninstall’.
Disabling Image File Encryption
Encryption settings on smartphones can prevent Windows Photo Viewer from opening images. Ensure that you’ve disabled encryption on the image files you’re attempting to view.
How to Disable Encryption on Image Files:
- Right-click on the image file, go to Properties, and then click on the Advanced button.
- Deselect ‘Encrypt content to secure data’ and confirm by clicking OK.
Final Thoughts: Addressing ‘Photo Can’t Open This Picture’ on Windows 10/11 PCs
After following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be equipped to tackle the ‘Photo can’t open this picture’ problem on your Windows 10/11 PC. Should you have lingering questions or require further assistance, feel free to seek support through our contact forum. And if you found this guide helpful, please consider sharing it with others who might also benefit from it.
