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May 6, 2017
Answered

Reassociating .lrcat with files in new locations after move to new computer

  • May 6, 2017
  • 1 reply
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I had to move my LR catalog files and data files to a new computer. Originally, the .lrcat file and data files were on the same drive. But, on my new computer, they are on separate drives. Now when I open the .lrcat, I see the previews and edits (the metadata and previews) but the files are not identified by LR (on the folder tree there are question marks). I can Import all the data files from the new location into the catalog but there doesn't seem to be a way to associate the data from the new location with the original edits. You can't edit the .lrcat with NotePad either. So now what? I can't put the data files on a drive that has the original drive letter and directory structure as it was originally. Is there a way to reassociate the edits and data without recreating the original storage schema? I can't just give up thousands of edits.

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    Correct answer Rob_Cullen

    Is there a way to re-associate the edits and data without recreating the original storage schema?

    Yes.

    The answer is in paragraph 3.  at this link- https://www.lightroomqueen.com/lightroom-photos-missing-fix/

    3. "Are some of the folders marked as missing,..."

    Do NOT start a new catalog.

    Do NOT do any importing from the new photo locations

    Simply re-link the folders as in the article from Victoria Bampton.

    1 reply

    Rob_Cullen
    Community Expert
    Rob_CullenCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    May 6, 2017

    Is there a way to re-associate the edits and data without recreating the original storage schema?

    Yes.

    The answer is in paragraph 3.  at this link- https://www.lightroomqueen.com/lightroom-photos-missing-fix/

    3. "Are some of the folders marked as missing,..."

    Do NOT start a new catalog.

    Do NOT do any importing from the new photo locations

    Simply re-link the folders as in the article from Victoria Bampton.

    Regards. My System: Windows-11, Lightroom-Classic 15.3, Photoshop 27.5, ACR 18.3, Lightroom 9.3, Lr-iOS 10.4.0, Bridge 16.0.3 .
    mjhockAuthor
    Participant
    May 6, 2017

    Thanks! Much appreciated