The image data depends on the information in the header to be decoded correctly. This process can be easily automated.Ī corrupted header typically looks like this in Windows Explorer (large thumbnail view): In short you cut the header of a known good file and stick to the image data of the corrupt file. I have written about this in more detail here. If the header is corrupt, and only the header, by far the easiest plus the most effective way to repair the file is with the use of a ‘sample’ file and a hex editor such as HxD. Actual image data, which is encoded, compressed binary data.Corrupt and damaged JPEG filesĪ JPEG image consists basically of two parts: Of course it also possible damage extends overlaps both areas (partially). Colors are ‘off’ and image data is misaligned. File opens but the contents do not display correctly.Usually Windows Explorer is unable to show previews or thumbnails. JPEG file is too corrupt to open with any photo viewer or editor.Learning from that experience I have created a utility called JPEG Repair Toolkit that addresses most common issues with corrupt and damaged JPEG files. I have been offering a JPEG repair service for a while now. Something I have been doing lately is looking into repair of damaged and corrupt JPEG photos.

Jpeg repair toolkit