Understand "Cannot playback image" message on the camera.

Article ID: ART168630 | Date published: 10/12/2017 | Date last updated: 08/16/2019
 

Description

Learn reasons for the message "Cannot playback image" on the camera, when there is an issue with the memory card or files stored on the card. Includes potential resolutions.

Solution


Possible issues and resolutions

  • You are trying to play back images captured with a non-Canon camera.
    Images captured with other cameras might not appear on Canon cameras. Use the original camera or save the image to a computer for viewing. See the the EOS Utility manual bundled with the camera or download it.
  • Images in the memory card were modified and then saved back to the memory card.
    Images that were rotated, edited, or modified may not display on Canon cameras. Use a computer or other device for viewing.
  • There is a problem with the memory card.
    If you have multiple memory cards, initialize another memory card and take some test shots. If images can be played back normally, the card that shows the error message may be malfunctioning. Try reformatting the faulty memory card to solve the issue. When you reformat a card, you lose all data and images. If possible, copy the images before reformatting. 

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