Sony Camera Cannot Display Error: How to Fix It
Easy 10-20 minutes Low Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- Cannot Display
- Brand
- Sony
- Product Type
- camera
- Severity
- Low
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 10-20 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Memory card reader
- Computer
- Clean dry cloth
How to Fix Error Code Cannot Display
-
Turn camera off and back on
-
Check if error affects all images
-
Remove and reinsert memory card
Always turn off the camera before removing the memory card to prevent data corruption. -
Format memory card in camera
Formatting will permanently delete all photos and videos on the card. Back up important files first if possible. -
Test with different memory card
-
Check files on computer
-
Update camera firmware
Never turn off the camera or remove the battery during firmware updates as this can permanently damage your camera. -
Reset camera to factory settings
This will erase all your custom camera settings and preferences.
Parts You May Need
High-speed SD card
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USB card reader
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High-speed SD card
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High-speed SD card
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USB card reader
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High-speed SD card
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USB card reader
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High-speed SD card
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USB card reader
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High-speed SD card
Check Price on Amazon
USB card reader
Check Price on Amazon
High-speed SD card
Check Price on Amazon
USB card reader
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High-speed SD card
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USB card reader
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High-speed SD card
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USB card reader
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When to Call a Professional
Contact Sony customer support or visit an authorized repair center if the error persists after trying all steps, if your camera is still under warranty, or if you suspect internal hardware failure affecting the image processor.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover photos that show Cannot Display error?
Yes, in many cases corrupted photos can be recovered using data recovery software on your computer. Try connecting the memory card to a computer and using photo recovery programs like PhotoRec or Recuva before formatting the card.
Why does my Sony camera show Cannot Display for some photos but not others?
This typically happens when specific image files become corrupted due to incomplete writes, power interruptions during saving, or memory card errors. Other photos remain unaffected because they were saved properly.
Will formatting my memory card fix the Cannot Display error permanently?
Formatting usually resolves the immediate error by clearing file system corruption, but it won't prevent future occurrences. To prevent repeat issues, use high-quality memory cards, avoid removing the card while the camera is writing data, and ensure your battery is charged.
Is the Cannot Display error a sign my Sony camera is broken?
No, this error is usually related to file corruption or memory card issues, not camera hardware failure. If the error only affects certain files and your camera can still take new photos normally, the camera itself is likely functioning properly.
Can using the wrong file format cause Cannot Display errors?
Yes, if photos were edited on a computer and saved in formats not supported by your Sony camera, they may show Cannot Display errors. Stick to JPEG format for maximum compatibility, or check your camera manual for supported RAW formats.