Card not formatted
Canon Camera
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
This message means the camera cannot read the file system on the memory card. The card may be new (never formatted), formatted for a different device, or corrupted. Do NOT format if the card has photos you need — recover them first.
Affected Models
- All Canon cameras
Common Causes
- New card that has not been formatted in the camera
- Card formatted on a computer in an incompatible format (NTFS, APFS)
- Card corrupted from improper removal or power loss during write
- Card formatted in a different camera brand
- Card file system damaged
How to Fix It
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If the card is new or empty: select Yes to format it.
Formatting prepares the card for use with your Canon camera. This creates the correct folder structure (DCIM, etc.).
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If the card has photos: DO NOT format. Recover first.
Put the card in a computer using a card reader. If the computer can read it, copy all photos off immediately. If not, use recovery software (Recuva, PhotoRec) before formatting.
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After recovering photos, format the card in the camera.
Always format in the camera, not on a computer. This ensures the correct FAT32 or exFAT format is used.
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If the card repeatedly loses its format, replace it.
Cards that keep going unformatted are failing. Replace with a new name-brand card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover photos from an unformatted card?
Usually yes. The photos are still on the card — the file system index is just damaged. Recovery software can find them by scanning the raw card data.
What format does Canon use for memory cards?
Cards 32GB and under use FAT32. Cards 64GB and larger use exFAT. Formatting in the camera automatically selects the correct format.