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Fix Family Tree Maker Media Folder Path Errors Fast
Moving your genealogy files to a new computer or external drive often causes broken image icons. If your photos and census documents have turned into blank red question marks, learning how to fix Family Tree Maker media folder path errors will quickly restore your gallery links.
Why Family Tree Maker Media Folder Path Errors Happen
Family Tree Maker does not actually store your photos inside the main .ftm database file. Instead, it creates shortcuts pointing to the exact folder location on your hard drive where those images live.
- Drive Letter Changes: Plugs a USB or external drive into a different port, changing drive
D:to driveE:. - Computer Migration: Moving files to a new PC with a different user folder directory name.
- Manual File Moves: Dragging your raw photo collection into a new folder outside of FTM.
Step-by-Step Guide to Relink Your Missing Media Files
Follow these exact steps to fix the broken directory shortcuts without having to re-upload every photo manually.
1. Run the Find Missing Media Tool
Open your software and switch to the Media workspace. Click the Media menu at the top left of your screen and select Find Missing Media. The built-in scanner will display a list of all images with broken links.
2. Direct the Software to Your New Directory
In the search pop-up box, click Browse and point the software to the folder where your photos are currently stored. Check the box for Search subfolders so the program scans your entire hard drive directory in one go.
3. Re-index and Compact Your File
Once the search finishes, FTM will automatically repair every broken shortcut pointing to that directory. After the link repair completes, navigate to File > Compact File to lock in the new folder structure and keep your software running fast.
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