Permanently deleting photos from a memory card

9 years 3 months ago #420175 by Blake Vogt
I see post popping up talking about recovering accidental photo deletes from memory cards.  What if you wanted to permanently delete all trace of the photos?  So that there is no recovery.  Is that possible? 


,
9 years 3 months ago #420187 by Baydream
After formatting the card, you would need to shoot over them. A ton of work depending on  the size of the card. If you know in advance, better to use a small card and then a hammer.

Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork

Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420189 by garyrhook
There are programs available that can perform a secure erase by writing over a device. I'm sure you can find one that will work on memory cards.

or just delete the files then try to copy a very large file (ie a video file) onto the card until you run out of room. That will destroy the previous files just fine.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420230 by Alex
:agree:   nailed it

Thank you for making PhotographyTalk.com your photography community of choice.
Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420248 by Flash Steven
Once you format a card, then take a photo over that card.  That will destroy any chances of getting anything prior. 

Canon 7D w/grip, Canon 40D, Canon 70-200mm f2.8 IS L Canon MPE 65mm f2.8 macro; Sigma 70-300mm f2.8; Sigma 150mm f2.8 macro; Sigma 8-16mm f4.5-5.6
Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420283 by garyrhook

Flash Steven wrote: Once you format a card, then take a photo over that card.  That will destroy any chances of getting anything prior. 


That is incorrect. Please read my post above.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420309 by Roman Omell
Break the card in half if you are going to discard the card anyway.  


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420874 by Prago

garyrhook wrote: There are programs available that can perform a secure erase by writing over a device. I'm sure you can find one that will work on memory cards.

or just delete the files then try to copy a very large file (ie a video file) onto the card until you run out of room. That will destroy the previous files just fine.



True

SWM into chainsaws and hockey masks seeks like-minded SWF. No weirdos, please
Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024