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Deleted File Recovery

How to Recover Deleted Media from a Video Project

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to retrieve media clips that were deleted from a video project's media bin.

Product
Video Editor
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Accidental deletion of video clips from the 'Your Media' section of an active video editing project.
Observed behavior
The deleted clips are removed from the project and completed video, but the original source files are left intact on the computer's storage.
Before you start

Verify the original folder path on your computer where the raw video files are saved so you can easily locate them for reimporting.

Solution 1Recommended

Reimport Original Video Files into the Project

Use the import function to bring your original media files back into the project workspace from your local hard drive.

When you delete videos from the 'Your Media' section of your project, the files are only removed from the software's interface, not from your physical computer storage.

While you can easily retrieve the video files themselves, any edits, trims, or effects that were applied to the clips prior to deletion are permanently lost and cannot be recovered.

1
Locate Your Source Files

Open your computer's file explorer and navigate to the directory where you originally saved the raw video files.

2
Open Your Project

Launch your video editing software and open the specific video project you are currently working on.

3
Reimport the Media

Click the 'Import media' button in the 'Your Media' section of the editor, select the original video files from your computer, and add them back into your project bin.

Project Information Loss: As the deletion warning explains, reimporting restores the media files but will not restore any previous edits, timeline placements, trims, or effects associated with those clips.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Does deleting a clip from the project also delete it from my computer?

No. Deleting clips from your project's media section only removes them from the completed video timeline. The original video files remain completely untouched on your computer's hard drive.

Can I recover the trims and edits made to a deleted video clip?

Unfortunately, no. Removing a clip deletes all project information associated with it, including any edits, trims, or visual effects. Reimporting the file will only bring back the raw, unedited footage.

Why does the editor show a deletion warning?

The deletion warning is there to ensure you are aware that removing the media from the project bin will permanently erase all settings, cuts, and modifications applied to that specific clip within the current project.