How to Fix “File Could Not Be Found” in Lightroom

How to Fix “File Could Not Be Found” in Lightroom

Why You See the “File Not Found” Message

When Lightroom displays “File Could Not Be Found” or shows question marks on folders/exclamation points on thumbnails, it means the program has lost connection with your files. This typically happens when:

• You move folders or photos outside of Lightroom
• You rename folders outside of Lightroom
• The storage drive containing the files is disconnected, moved, or corrupted

Solutions to Reconnect Your Files

1. Return Files to Original Location

If you’ve recently moved files, simply return them to their original location where Lightroom expects to find them. Lightroom will automatically redetect them.

2. Relink Folders in New Location

To keep files in their new location:

1. Right-click the folder with question mark
2. Select “Find Missing Folder…”
3. Navigate to the file’s current location
4. Lightroom will update the path automatically

3. Reconnect External Drives

If files are missing because the drive was disconnected:

1. Power on or reconnect the external drive
2. Lightroom will redetect the files
3. Warning icons will disappear

4. Handling Deleted Files

For permanently deleted files:

1. Select the thumbnail in Lightroom
2. Press Delete key
3. Choose “Remove” to delete the catalog reference

Prevention Tips

To avoid broken links in Lightroom:

• Always rename files within Lightroom (Right-click > “Rename”)
• Move folders using Lightroom’s drag-and-drop interface
• Never manage files outside of Lightroom

Remember these simple solutions whenever you encounter missing file warnings in Lightroom.