Solved: Photos Disappeared from iPhone Suddenly

‘I noticed that over 500 old photos from iPhone 11 have disappeared and now only the recently shot pictures are showing! I lost almost all of my best memories saved in my phone. I am sure I did not delete them. Where did the pictures disappeared from iPhone? How do I get back photos missing from iPhone? Please help.’

Photos suddenly disappearing from iPhone or random photos missing from Camera Roll or Gallery is a common complaint. Usually, photos get disappeared after iOS update, iPhone reset/restore, or when the device storage is full. You may also lose pictures after installing any new software, or jailbreaking. Sometimes, running an iPhone cleaning software without checking what it is deleting on your iOS device can also result in loss of photos.

The situation is stressful, even more when you don’t have any copies or backup of lost photos.

So how to recover the missing or lost photos on iPhone? This post shares the effective methods to get back the missing photos from Camera Roll, Gallery, or iCloud on your iPhone.

In any such sudden photo loss situation, the best solution is to use a secure photo recovery tool for iPhone that can recover photos lost due to any reason. Besides, there are free methods that might restore disappeared photos from iPhone, which you should try once.

Method 1: Restart your iPhone

If your photos suddenly disappeared from iPhone, first restart the iOS device. Then open the Photo app, Camera Roll, or Photo Stream to see if the missing photos are showing or not.

You can check here the steps to restart your iPhone model .

Method 2: Restore photos from Recently Deleted folder on iPhone

You might have accidentally deleted the photos on iPhone. Check and recover the photos from the ‘Recently Deleted’ folder of your Photos app.

Steps to recover photos on iPhone from ‘Recently Deleted’:

• On your iPhone, click to follow Photos > Albums.
• Scroll down to Utilities and click Recently Deleted.
• Look for your missing photo, tap on it and choose Recover. If there are multiple photos, click on ‘Select’ followed by ‘Recover’.

Note: Photos deleted on iPhone stay in your ‘Recently Deleted’ folder only for 30 days, after which they are permanently removed from the iOS device.

Method 3: Unhide photos on iPhone

Photos disappeared from iPhone can be in the hidden folder in Photos app. Simply, check the Hidden folder on your device and unhide the required photos.

• Open Photos app on iPhone.
• Click on Albums.
• Under Utilities click on Hidden folder. In case you don’t see the ‘Hidden’ folder, go to ‘Settings’ of your iPhone. Click on ‘Photos’ and toggle on ‘Hidden Album’.
• If you see the disappeared photos, select and click on the ‘Share’ button (the arrow icon).
• Next, tap Unhide to move the pictures to their original location on iPhone.

Method 4: Enable iCloud Photos

iCloud Photos store images in iCloud and syncs them to your iPhone, iPad, iCloud.com, iPod touch, Mac, and Apple TV. This means that any changes done to pictures library on one device will show up on your other iOS devices as well. If the photos are disappearing from iPhone only, may be the iCloud Photo is not synced or turned on. So enable iCloud Photos to get back the disappeared pictures on iPhone.

Steps to enable iCloud Photos on iPhone:

• Turn on Wi-Fi of your iPhone.
• On iPhone, navigate to Settings.
• Click on your name and tap iCloud > Photos.
• Toggle on iCloud Photos.

Now check if the missing photos are showing up on iPhone or not.

Method 5: Recover iPhone photos from iTunes backup

If you have created iTunes backup, restore the disappeared photos on iPhone from it. However, this will replace your existing iPhone data with iTunes backup data.

Steps to recover photos from iTunes:

• Connect your iPhone to computer.
• Launch iTunes.
• Select your iPhone under the device list and click on Summary.
• Click Restore Backup.
• In the Restore from Backup box, select the backup date that contains your photos.

• Click Restore. Wait until the process finishes and your iPhone restarts. All your disappeared photos will be recovered on iPhone.

Method 6: Restore photos from iCloud Backup

You can restore the previous iCloud backup that has the missing photos. However, like iTunes, this method will also replace the current data on your iPhone.

Steps to recover disappeared photos from iCloud:

• On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset.
• Click on Erase all Contents and Settings. In the dialog box, choose Erase Now.
• On the Apps & Data screen, click Restore from iCloud Backup. Enter your Apple ID. In case you have forgot your Apple ID, click here to know how to recover it.

• Select the recent backup and click Restore. The lost photos should now appear on iPhone.

Method 7: Recover lost photos with an iPhone data recovery software

The advanced iPhone recovery software — Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone, can restore photos lost, deleted, or missing due to any reason. Whether your photos disappeared from iPhone after update, due to low storage, or any other reason, the software can recover in all situations.

The biggest advantage of using the software is that it doesn’t remove your existing iPhone data. Further, the software shows the preview of the recoverable photos. Hence, its easy to select and recover only the required disappeared pictures from Camera Roll, iCloud Photo Library, Gallery, or those shared on chat messages, etc. Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone is compatible with the latest iPhone 14/13/12/11, iPad, and iPod touch.  The software supports recovery from the latest iOS 16 and older versions.

Quick steps to recover disappeared photos from iPhone:

• Download Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone on PC or Mac.
• Connect your iPhone to computer.
• Launch the software and select Recover from iPhone option from the left panel.

• Select the Camera Roll or Photo Stream from where the photos have disappeared and click Next to the start the scanning process.
• Now preview the recoverable photos, select them, and click Save to restore on iPhone or computer.

Note: You can also recover the lost photos from backup by choosing Recover from iCloud backup or Recover from iTunes backup , options in the software.

Conclusion

When you find suddenly photos disappearing from iPhone try any of the above 7 methods to get back the lost pictures. However, of all we recommend solutions Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone software is quick and easy to use. It is also of great help when you don’t want to recover from iCloud or iTunes backup that removes the existing data on iPhone.

How To Recover Data From Lost or Stolen iPhone In Easy Steps

Summary: Lost your iPhone and now worried about your precious data on it? This post shares how efficiently Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone can recover lost data from a lost or stolen iPhone using iCloud Backup.

When we lose our phone, then the only thing we worry about is the valuable data stored on it. To recover all our critical data (contacts, messages, photos, videos, voice memo, etc.) all we need to do is restore them either from iTunes or iCloud backup. What if due to some unknown reasons, we are unable to access the backup? Well, in such cases we can still recover our files from the backup via Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone software.

Apple is known for its flagship features and, one of them being able to automatically backup the iPhone data. ICloud and iTunes automatically back up iPhone data and updates it whenever you sync it to your Mac. The advantage of these backup systems is that you can recover your data when your iOS device is lost or stolen.

Speaking of which, a friend of mine lost his iPhone and was looking for ways to restore his critical data. As he had saved the information by backing it up, all he had to do was transfer the information to the new iOS device. However, as luck would have it, he was unable to access the backup files either.

To get rid of the deadlock, he decided to look for a third-party application which can recover iPhone data, and after some analysis, he opted for iPhone Data Recovery Software  by Stellar.

Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone (Ultimate Solution to Recover iPhone Data)

If your backup is accessible, you can recover data from the backup files. If you cannot access the backup files, then you need a third-party iPhone Data Recovery Software to recover data from your lost or stolen iPhone.

Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone provides you with 2 options to recover iPhone data i.e. either from iTunes backup files or iCloud backup files. It is easy to use and deploys a robust scanning algorithm so as to recover as much data as possible.

Irrespective of how you lost your iPhone data, you can get back your data in two Recovery modes namely:

1. from iTunes Backup
2. from iCloud Backup

Let’s look at each —

Recovery Mode 1: iTunes Backup Files

You can recover iPhone data if you have synchronised your iPhone with iTunes earlier. To recover data from iTunes Backup files, follow these steps:

i. Run Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone and select “Recover from iTunes Backup” tab

Figure 1 illustrates the main screen of the software

ii. The software displays the list of all iTunes backup files. Select the required backup file to recover

Figure 2 illustrates the entire list of the backup files

iii. From the Tree view, select the supported file categories which will list all the items under that category head.

iv. Preview the selected backup files and save the files

Figure 3 represents the preview of the files

**Note: You can preview the existing and deleted files. Moreover, type the keyword or filename in the search box to search for a particular file.

v. Click the Save button to recover the file.

Recovery Mode 2: iCloud Backup files

You can restore your iPhone data from iCloud Backup files as well. Follow the steps given below:

i. Install and Run Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone and select “Recover from iCloud Backup” tab.

Figure 5 represents the home screen of the software

ii. Next, enter the Apple ID and Password and sign in to iCloud.

Figure 6 illustrates the credential page

iii. After entering the necessary credentials, the software displays the list of all the backup files. Select the required files and press the Scan button

Figure 7 Represents the list of all files

iv. Preview the selected files and press the Save button which you can save to the desired location.

Figure 8 illustrates the preview of the files

The Process is over!!

What does Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone offers?

• Supports latest iOS 17, 16 15, 14, 13, 12 and below
• Recovers data from iTunes/iCloud Backup files
• Supports multiple device connections
• Data recovery from encrypted iTunes Backup files
• Provides option to import files to iPhones

Concluding Note

Simplicity is one of the several major aspects that are frequently sought by users. On that note, the interface of Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone software is quite simple and intuitive, and users can quickly and accurately recover iPhone data. With that said, do make it necessary to regularly backup your iPhone data.

How to Restore iPhone without Backup

Summary: Have you lost your iPhone data after an iOS upgrade or accidental deletion, etc.? Learn how iPhone data recovery software helps restore your iPhone without backup.

Digital devices are at a constant risk of inadvertent data loss, this data might be critical and iPhones are no exception. As a result, understanding different approaches you can take to bounce back from iPhone data loss is crucial when there’s no recent backup.

Data loss in iPhone occurs when you accidentally delete some important data, or your device is lost or stolen or physically damaged resulting in an inability to access or use your data. The best way to prevent it is to take routine backups of your iPhone data using iCloud or iTunes.

However, many users fail to maintain regular iPhone backups and lose crucial data when dealing with a fatal error. In such cases, you can utilize the multiple practices mentioned in this guideline to restore all your iPhone data without backup and save the day.

What Causes Data Loss on iPhones?

In the world of smartphones, there are many ways to lose data. Sometimes, it happens by accident; other times, it emerges as a result of malicious activity. Some of the most common causes of data loss on iPhones include:

• Human Error: Sometimes, data loss occurs when someone accidentally deletes important data. Either they were not paying attention or were distracted by something else that lead accidental data loss.
• Malware Activity: Malware is a program designed to harm your phone or information. Although iOS is relatively immune to cyber-attacks, it’s still advised to stay away from suspicious websites and emails to keep your iPhone and its data safe.
• Software Corruption: Software corruption occurs when a program, including an OS, fails to run properly due to internal errors like virus or malware attack, failed software updates, etc.

Although there are many other causes for data loss in iPhones, the top three mentioned above are the most common.

Can iPhone Data be Restored without Backup?

It may be possible to restore iPhone data without backup, but its success depends on certain factors. Deleting the iPhone data or factory resetting the iPhone doesn’t mean that your data is completely removed from the device. That data is still there on your device but has been moved to an unallocated folder.

To restore this deleted or lost iPhone data, immediately stop using your device to avoid overwriting. Then there is a possibility that you may be able to retrieve your iPhone data.

How Can I Restore iPhone without Backup?

The only way to restore lost data on your iPhone without a backup is by utilizing third-party recovery software. Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone is an award-winning recovery software that can restore deleted or lost files from your iPhone/iPad/iPod touch. It offers many amazing features to help you get back your photos, videos, audio files, documents, and other essential data in no time.

This software is powerful and easy-to-use when retrieving lost data, and you can operate it even if you have no technical background. Follow the steps below to discover how to utilize Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone and restore your lost data.

• Connect your iOS-operated device to a computer
• Download and install Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone on your computer.
• Click on the Start menu, type Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone, and press Enter.
• As the software launches, enter the Activation Key you received with your purchase.
• Then select the type of data you wish to recover and click Next.

• Wait for the scanning process to finish.

• Browse the recovered files and press Recover to save them on a storage device.

• After following the instructions, the lost files are accessible on the storage device you selected.

How Do I Prevent Data Loss on iPhones?

An iPhone backup is the best way to prevent data loss; it’s a copy of your data on a storage media or any Cloud server other than your iPhone.

There are several ways to create a backup of your iPhone; the safest choices are iTunes and iCloud. Follow the instructions below to create a backup immediately.

Back up iPhone using iTunes

Follow these steps to utilize iTunes:

• Download and install iTunes on your computer.
• Connect your device to the computer.
• Once you’re in the Device Summary page, click on Back Up Now.
• Wait for the process to finish.

Back up iPhone using iCloud

Follow these steps to utilize iCloud:

• Unlock your phone and open Settings.
• Tap on your name at the top of the screen.
• Select iCloud on the following page.
• Turn on iCloud Backup.
• Tap Back Up Now.
• Wait for the process to finish.

You can use this iCloud backup to restore iPhone data when needed. To know more, read: How to Restore iPhone from iCloud backup .

Bottom Line

Data loss in iPhone can occur due to various reasons including accidental deletion, software malfunction, etc.

The best way to prevent such scenarios is by taking regular backups of your iPhone. So, in an emergency, you can restore all your data from the backups you created earlier.

If you need help keeping healthy backups or utilizing recovery software to restore your information, seek a professional assistant to provide more instructions.

FAQ

1. Is Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone free?

You can download a free demo of Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone and test all the features. However, you must activate the product if you wish to recover files.

2. What version of iOS does Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone support?

The software supports the latest iOS and all the previous versions.

3. Does Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone require iTunes to be installed?

Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone utilizes iTunes system drivers to identify your devices.

4. How to recover deleted photos, videos & music files from your iPhone?

Users may lose their photos/videos/ music files due to accidental file deletion, system resets, failed updates, etc. However, by using Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone, you can recover lost media from Camera Roll, Photo Stream, WhatsApp, Kik, Viber, Tango, and other apps.

5. How to recover deleted voice memos from your iPhone?

You can restore deleted voice memos from the Recently Deleted folder, iCloud or iTunes backup, and iPhone data recovery software.

6. How to recover deleted contacts from your iPhone?

Losing contacts is frustrating, leaving users in agony to re-enter the lost information manually. However, Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone offers professional scans to retrieve lost or missing contacts and save them in CF, CSV, or HTML formats.

7. How to Retrieve Call History on iPhone?

Call logs may become inaccessible because of an app crash, iOS update, hardware damage, etc. Use backup or Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone to restore the lost or deleted iPhone call history .

8. How to retrieve deleted text messages on your iPhone?

Messages may contain valuable information, and losing them can cause immense stress. Use the best iPhone data recovery tool like Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone to recover lost text messages and iMessages from your iPhone or iPad.

9. How to recover deleted notes from your iPhone?

If you lose access to your notes for some reason, you can use Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone to run deep scans and retrieve deleted Notes and attachments .

10. How to restore iPhone from iTunes backup?

Although you can restore an iTunes backup from your computer, Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone also lets you retrieve only the preferred files from your iTunes files.

iPhone Data Recovery – An Infographic to Conquer iPhone Data Loss

DID YOU KNOW?

• More than 70% of people choose to upgrade to iOS 16 within a few days of release
• Analysis shows that about 20,000+ users experience data loss due to update failures and other related problems

TOP 5 CAUSES OF DATA LOSS

• iOS Update
• Accidental Deletion of Data
• Jailbreak failure
• iOS Restore
• Hardware or System Malfunction

WHAT ABOUT RECOVERING iOS DATA AFTER DATA LOSS?

iPhone Data Recovery  software helps you in such situations. Data exists in the internal memory of your iPhone even after deletion until it is overwritten by new data. Its advanced algorithm and internal underlying technology helps recover all deleted data from your iOS device, be it your iPhone or your iPad.

 WHAT YOU CAN RECOVER?

1. Recovers Deleted Photos from your iPhone – In just 3 steps you can recover your memorable photos from Camera Roll, Voice Memo, Photo Stream, etc.
2. Recovers deleted text messages from your iPhone – It not only recovers your text messages but also recovers your WhatsApp messages along with its attachments
3. Recovers deleted contacts from your iPhone – It retrieves your lost or deleted contacts from your iPhone, iTunes, or iCloud backup files
4. Recovers Safari Bookmarks – It easily recovers bookmarks from the Safari browser which you may have deleted accidentally
5. Recovers deleted data from iCloud backup files – It also recovers and restores data from your damaged iPhone through iCloud backup files
6. Recovers deleted data from encrypted iTunes backup files – In case any of your backup files gets accidentally deleted, the software enables you to access the data by removing encryption.