Why are my pictures missing from the Gallery app but visible in My Files?

Learn how to fix missing pictures in the Samsung Gallery app caused by hidden files, permission issues, .nomedia files, or incorrect folder settings.

If your pictures are visible in the My Files app but missing from the Gallery app on your Samsung Galaxy device, the issue is likely due to hidden files, restricted app permissions, or incorrect folder settings. Follow these steps to resolve the problem and ensure all your images appear in the Gallery app.

1. Why are pictures missing from the Gallery app?

The Gallery app relies on specific folder structures and permissions to display images. If files are hidden, permissions are restricted, or a .nomedia file exists, the Gallery app may not detect them. Here are common reasons:

- Files are marked as hidden in the My Files app.

- App permissions for photos and videos are restricted.

- A .nomedia file prevents the Gallery app from scanning the folder.

- Images are stored in a folder not recognized by the Gallery app.

2. How to fix missing pictures in the Gallery app

Allow Access to All Photos and Videos

Ensure the Gallery app has permission to access your photos and videos:

1. Open Settings on your Samsung Galaxy device.
2. Go to Apps > Gallery.
3. Tap Permissions > Photos and videos.
4. Set it to Always allow all.

Allow Access to Designated Photos and Videos

If you prefer to grant access to specific folders, adjust the permissions:

1. Open the Gallery app.
2. Tap the menu (three vertical dots) > Settings.
3. Select Select photos and videos and choose the folders you want to access.

Turn on All Files Access for Relevant Apps

Some apps require special access to view all files. Enable this for the Gallery app:

1. Open Settings > Apps.
2. Tap More options (three dots) > Special access > All files access.
3. Enable access for Download Manager, Media, MTP application, and MTP Host.
4. Restart your phone.

Show Hidden System Files

If your files are hidden, follow these steps to make them visible:

1. Open My Files on your Samsung Galaxy device.
2. Tap More options (three vertical dots) > Settings.
3. Toggle on Show hidden system files.
4. Navigate to the folder containing your images.

Delete .nomedia Files

A .nomedia file can prevent the Gallery app from scanning a folder. Remove it if present:

1. Open My Files and navigate to the folder with your images.
2. Look for a file named .nomedia.
3. Tap and hold the file, then select Delete.

Check the Trash in My Files and Gallery

Deleted images may be in the Trash. Restore them if needed:

My Files:

1. Open My Files > More options (three vertical dots) > Trash.
2. Tap and hold the missing file, then select Restore.

Gallery:

1. Open the Gallery app.
2. Tap the menu on the lower right > Trash.
3. Select Edit, choose your image, and tap Restore.

Note: Images in the Gallery app's Trash are permanently deleted after 30 days.

Check the Downloads Folder in Gallery

Some images may appear in the Downloads folder but not in the main Pictures tab. Check here:

1. Open the Gallery app.
2. Tap Albums > Downloads.

Supported Samsung Galaxy Devices

This solution applies to Samsung Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S25, Galaxy S26, Galaxy Z Fold, Galaxy Z Flip, and Galaxy A series.

Additional Things to Check

Why the issue happens:

- Software update issues commonly occur after interrupted downloads, unstable network connections, or low storage warnings.

When updates may not appear:

- Updates may not appear if the device is in Safe Mode or if third-party apps interfere with the Gallery app.

Related Samsung Support Topics

- How to free storage space on Samsung Galaxy devices

- How to use Smart Switch on Samsung Galaxy phones

- How to clear cache files on Samsung Galaxy devices