How to Retrieve .CR2 Files After a Catastrophic System Failure

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .CR2 file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Retrieve .CR2 Files After a Catastrophic System Failure
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .CR2 file?

A CR2 file is a raw camera image created by Canon digital cameras. It stores uncompressed image data exactly how it was captured by the CCD. CR2 files are typically used by professional photographers because they store higher quality images.

What Are Common Causes of ".CR2" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes for ".CR2" file loss or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".CR2" files while managing their files or cleaning up their storage devices.
  2. File system corruption: Issues with the file system on the storage device can cause ".CR2" files to become inaccessible or lost.
  3. Formatting or reformatting: Formatting a storage device without proper backup can result in the loss of all data, including ".CR2" files.
  4. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect storage devices and corrupt or delete ".CR2" files.
  5. Power failure: Sudden power outages or improper shutdowns while working with ".CR2" files can lead to file corruption or loss.
  6. Hardware failure: Problems with the storage device, such as a hard drive failure or a faulty memory card, can result in ".CR2" file loss.
  7. Software conflicts or errors: Errors or conflicts in software applications used to manage or edit ".CR2" files can cause data loss or corruption.
  8. Human error: Accidental overwriting, improper handling of storage devices, or mistakenly formatting the wrong drive can lead to ".CR2" file loss.
  9. File transfer errors: Interrupted or incomplete file transfers between devices can result in ".CR2" file loss or corruption.
  10. Aging or damaged storage media: Over time, storage devices can degrade or become physically damaged, leading to the loss of ".CR2" files.

It is always recommended to regularly back up ".CR2" files and use reliable data recovery software or services to recover lost or corrupted files.

How to recover lost ".CR2" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".CR2" file may be deleted.

Go to view
🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".CR2" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".CR2" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".CR2" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".CR2" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".CR2" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo canon Raw Image File image file file?

Programs that open ".CR2" files

Windows
File Viewer Plus File Viewer Plus
Adobe Photoshop CC 2019 Adobe Photoshop CC 2019
Microsoft Photos Microsoft Photos
Adobe Photoshop Elements 2019 Adobe Photoshop Elements 2019
ACD Systems ACDSee Photo Studio ACD Systems ACDSee Photo Studio
ACD Systems Canvas X 2019 ACD Systems Canvas X 2019
IrfanView IrfanView
Microsoft Windows Live Photo Gallery Microsoft Windows Live Photo Gallery
GIMP with UFRaw plug-in GIMP with UFRaw plug-in
FastStone Image Viewer FastStone Image Viewer
Mac
Apple Photos Apple Photos
Adobe Photoshop CC 2019 Adobe Photoshop CC 2019
Adobe Photoshop Elements 2019 Adobe Photoshop Elements 2019
Snap Converter Snap Converter
GIMP with UFRaw plug-in GIMP with UFRaw plug-in
MacPhun ColorStrokes MacPhun ColorStrokes
Linux
GIMP with UFRaw plug-in GIMP with UFRaw plug-in
gphoto2 gphoto2
MATE MATE
gThumb gThumb
Web
Google Photos Google Photos
iOS
Adobe Photoshop Express Adobe Photoshop Express
Android
File Viewer for Android File Viewer for Android
Adobe Photoshop Express Adobe Photoshop Express

Additional Information

  • File type: Canon Raw Image File

  • File extension: .CR2

  • Developer: Canon

  • Category: Camera Raw Files

  • Format: Binary

  • Mime-type: text/plain

  • HEX: 49 49 2A 00 10 00 00 00 43 52

  • ASCII: II*.....CR

  • File types that use the extension .CR2:

    • Canon Raw Image File

    • Poser Character Rigging File

Feedback

We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 13:07 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .CR2 files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
    Reply
Post comment
User
Leave a reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Updated:
  • Evaluations:
  • 3
  • /
  • :
Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

Share

Questions and answers

  • What is ".CR2 Recovery" and how does it work?

    ".CR2 Recovery" refers to the process of recovering and repairing corrupted or damaged CR2 files. CR2 is a file format used by Canon digital cameras to store raw image data. When a CR2 file becomes corrupt or inaccessible, it cannot be opened or used properly.

    CR2 recovery software is designed to scan the damaged CR2 files and extract the raw image data, attempting to repair any errors or inconsistencies in the process. This software utilizes advanced algorithms to analyze the file structure, identify the issues, and reconstruct the damaged parts of the CR2 file.

    The recovery process involves reading the data from the corrupted CR2 file, identifying any missing or damaged sections, and reconstructing them based on the available information. This can include recovering the image data, metadata, and other associated information.

    .CR2 recovery software can be used by photographers, professionals, or anyone who has encountered a corrupted CR2 file and wants to retrieve their valuable photos. By using this software, users can often recover their damaged CR2 files and access the original raw image data that may have otherwise been lost.

  • Are there any specific software or tools available for ".CR2 Recovery"?

    Yes, there are several software and tools available for .CR2 recovery. Here are some popular ones:

    1. Stellar Photo Recovery: This software is designed specifically for recovering lost or deleted photos, including .CR2 files. It supports various storage devices and has a user-friendly interface.
    2. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: This tool can recover various types of files, including .CR2 files. It offers a simple and intuitive interface and supports different storage devices.
    3. Disk Drill: This software has a powerful data recovery engine that can recover .CR2 files from various storage devices. It offers a free version with limited features and a paid version with advanced options.
    4. PhotoRec: This open-source software is known for its ability to recover various file types, including .CR2 files. It runs on multiple platforms and is highly customizable.
    5. Wondershare Recoverit: This tool supports the recovery of .CR2 files from different storage media. It has a user-friendly interface and offers advanced scanning options.

    It's important to note that data recovery success depends on various factors such as the condition of the storage device and the extent of file damage. It's recommended to try multiple software options and consult professional data recovery services if necessary.

  • What are the common causes of CR2 file corruption and how can ".CR2 Recovery" help in recovering the files?

    There are several common causes of CR2 file corruption, including:

    1. Improper handling: If the CR2 files are not handled properly, such as abrupt removal of memory card or camera shutdown during file transfer, it can lead to corruption.
    2. Virus or malware infection: If the storage device containing CR2 files gets infected by a virus or malware, it can corrupt the files.
    3. File system errors: Issues with the file system, such as disk errors or bad sectors, can cause CR2 file corruption.
    4. Software or hardware issues: Problems with the camera firmware, memory card, or image editing software can also lead to CR2 file corruption.

    ".CR2 Recovery" is a software or tool designed specifically for recovering CR2 files that have been corrupted or lost. It can help in the recovery process by:

    1. Scanning and repairing corrupted CR2 files: The software scans the storage device or memory card for corrupted CR2 files and attempts to repair them, making them accessible again.
    2. Recovering deleted CR2 files: In addition to corruption, ".CR2 Recovery" can also recover accidentally deleted CR2 files, allowing users to retrieve their lost data.
    3. Previewing recoverable files: The tool often provides a preview feature that allows users to see the recoverable CR2 files before proceeding with the recovery process. This helps in selecting the required files for recovery.
    4. Retrieving files from various storage devices: ".CR2 Recovery" is usually compatible with different storage devices, such as memory cards, hard drives, or external storage, making it useful for recovering CR2 files from various sources.

    It's important to note that the success of CR2 file recovery depends on the extent of corruption and the condition of the storage device. In some cases, the files may be partially or completely unrecoverable.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Description
Hello! This is AI-based Hetman Software virtual assistant, and it will answer any of your questions right away.
Start Chat