Reconnecting Missing Files - Elements Organizer

Report · Dec 21, 2017

I would like to upgrade from PSE 14 > PSE 18. I want to backup all my catalogs (tags, albums, etc). I have around 20,000 pieces of art, text, etc in these catalogs. When I go to File > Backup Catalog I get a box that says 2,514 items have been moved and cannot be backed up until they are reconnected. Do you want to reconnect? I select Yes, it starts "looking" for these items. It also gives me the option to search for them myself, which I do. It brings up a dialog box. On one side are the missing files, on the other side the location where I can direct it to look. I know where the files are, I keep all my artwork in the same location. It is stored on an external hard drive. I select all the missing files and the external drive to search, but it never reconnects any of the items.

What am I doing wrong?? I have done this multiple times before and they have always reconnected. I'm not sure what I am missing.

Thank you in advance for your help!

Report · Dec 22, 2017

I want to backup all my catalogs (tags, albums, etc)

Does this mean you have several catalogs?

Your workflow is correct and you are used to it which is a very good thing.

You screenshot shows missing items on the left part which the catalog considers as beeing in your main drive, not the external drive.

I would try a few tests to reconnect only one selected missing file after checking that the file realy exists on the external drive, exactly in the folder you are pointing to.

If the file has been misplaced, you should be able to find its real location using a search from your Explorer/Finder.

If you have found the real location, you can also test to 'reimport' the missing file(s). No guarantee, but in that case, the organizer may reconnect to the original database record, updating the location and keeping the thumbnail... worth a try.