Accidentally deleting a precious photo from Instagram can be frustrating. Luckily, there are several ways to recover deleted Instagram photos. This guide provides comprehensive methods for both Android and iPhone users, ensuring you can retrieve those lost memories.
alt text: A person looking stressed at their phone, potentially after deleting a photo.
Can You Recover Deleted Instagram Photos?
While Instagram doesn’t have a built-in trash bin, recovering deleted photos is possible. Various methods and recovery software can help retrieve your pictures. This guide will outline those options, offering a straightforward recovery process.
How to Recover Deleted Instagram Photos on Android
Method 1: Check the Recently Deleted Folder
Instagram retains deleted photos and videos for a short period in the “Recently Deleted” folder.
- Go to your profile and tap the three-line icon.
- Select “Your Activity” and then “Recently Deleted.”
- Choose the photo you want to recover and tap “More.”
- Select “Restore” or “Restore to Profile.”
alt text: Screenshot of the Instagram 'Recently Deleted' folder on a phone.
Method 2: Check Your File Manager
When uploading from Android, Instagram often saves a copy in your phone’s gallery.
- Open “My Files” and navigate to “Pictures.”
- Locate the “Instagram” folder. Your deleted photos might be there.
alt text: Screenshot of a phone's file manager showing the Instagram folder.
Method 3: Check the Instagram Archive
The Archive feature hides posts from your public profile but doesn’t delete them.
- Open Instagram and tap your profile picture.
- Tap the menu icon and select “Archive.”
- Find the desired photo and tap the three dots.
- Choose “Show on Profile” to restore it.
alt text: Screenshot of the Instagram archive feature with options to restore a post.
How to Recover Deleted Instagram Photos on iPhone
Method 1: Use the Recently Deleted Feature
Similar to Android, iPhone users can utilize the “Recently Deleted” feature within the Instagram app. Follow the same steps as outlined in the Android section above.
Method 2: Check the Recently Deleted Folder in Photos
- Open the “Photos” app and tap “Albums.”
- Select “Recently Deleted.” Deleted photos are kept here for 40 days.
- Choose the photos you want to recover and tap “Recover.”
alt text: Screenshot of the 'Recently Deleted' folder in the iPhone Photos app.
Method 3: Check iCloud Backup
- Go to iCloud.com and log in.
- Click on “Photos” and locate the deleted Instagram pictures.
- Download the desired photos.
alt text: Screenshot of the iCloud website with the Photos app open.
Method 4: Use iTunes Backup
- Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes.
- Go to the Summary tab and choose “Restore Backup.”
- Select the relevant backup and click “Restore.”
Recovering Deleted Instagram Photos Using a Computer: Wondershare Recoverit
alt text: Recoverit Data Recovery software interface.
Wondershare Recoverit is a powerful photo recovery software for retrieving deleted files from various devices.
- Choose Location: Select your iPhone or Android device.
- Scan: Initiate a scan to search for deleted photos.
- Preview and Recover: Preview the recoverable photos and select the ones you want to restore.
FAQ: How to Recover Deleted Instagram Posts From Years Ago?
Recovering posts from years ago is difficult. Potential options include checking the Instagram Archive, cloud backups (iCloud, Google Photos), or contacting Instagram support.
Conclusion
Recovering deleted Instagram photos is achievable using various methods. This guide provides comprehensive steps for both Android and iPhone, along with the option of using recovery software like Wondershare Recoverit. Remember to always back up your photos to prevent future data loss.
