Fix Invalid Value for Registry on JPG/JPEG/PNG Files

TL;DR: Encountering the “Invalid value for registry on JPG/JPEG/PNG files” error can be frustrating. Fortunately, it’s usually due to software-related issues, specifically a corruption within the Windows Photo Viewer application, and can be resolved with a few tried-and-true methods.

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Resetting the Photos app, running the System File Checker tool, or restoring your system to a previous state are recommended fixes.

Why Do You Encounter “Invalid Value for Registry” Errors?

In the heart of your computer’s operating system, the registry serves as a comprehensive database, storing low-level settings for the OS and for the apps that opt to use it. It’s essentially the DNA of your Windows machine.

Unfortunately, this makes it susceptible to corruption or misconfiguration, which can result in errors like “Invalid value for registry on JPG/JPEG/PNG files.”

Fixing the Issue: Methods to Try

The first line of defense when you encounter this error should be resetting the Photos app. Windows 10 (and later) uses the Photos app as its default photo viewer. Corruption within this app can lead to errors, but resetting it often solves the problem.

1. Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Scroll down and click Photos > Advanced options.
3. Click Reset.

1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Let the scan complete and follow any prompts to repair files.

In some cases, a recent system change could be the culprit. Restoring your system to a previous state might be the solution.

1. Type System Restore in the Windows search box and select Create a Restore Point.
2. Click System Restore in the new window.
3. Follow the prompts to select a restore point from before the issue started and complete the process.

Understanding the Registry and its Role in the Error

To fully comprehend the essence of the error “Invalid value for registry on JPG/JPEG/PNG files”, it’s crucial to know more about what a registry is. In a Windows computer, the registry serves as the keeper of all configuration settings for both your operating system and installed applications.

With such a monumental responsibility, it is, unfortunately, susceptible to errors and issues, particularly when changes or updates are applied, potentially resulting in a corrupted registry. A corrupted registry key corresponding to the Photos application can cause the specific error we’re discussing.

Repairing the Registry

Though it might seem intimidating, manual editing of the Windows registry is another method to consider if the error persists after trying the other solutions.

I recommend creating a backup of your registry before making any changes to avoid accidentally creating new problems.

1. Press Windows + R and type regedit, then press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppModel\Repository\Families\Microsoft.Windows.Photos_....
3. You will find several entries, usually eight. Delete the oldest entries until only the newest four remain.

Reinstalling the Photos App

If you’re not comfortable editing the registry, another option to consider is reinstalling the Photos app. This can be a bit tricky, as the Photos app is a built-in Windows application, but it can be done using PowerShell.

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Type the command Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Remove-AppxPackage and press Enter. This command removes the Photos app.
3. Restart your computer.
4. To reinstall the Photos app, open the Microsoft Store, search for Microsoft Photos, and click Install.

Alternate Photo Viewing Software

If all else fails, or if you simply want a change, you might consider using a different photo viewer. There are many alternatives available that are both free and easy to use.

For example, I recommend software such as IrfanView, which is lightweight and user-friendly, or Adobe Lightroom, a more advanced tool that is excellent for professional use. These alternative photo viewers can bypass the registry issues that are causing problems with the default Windows Photos app.

Additional Tips and Alternatives

If these steps fail to resolve the error, I recommend trying an alternative photo viewing software, such as IrfanView or Adobe Lightroom, to bypass potential problems within Windows’ default viewer.

Maintaining regular backups of your registry can also be beneficial. Registry backups allow you to restore your system to a functioning state, even in the face of serious errors.

Conclusion

Errors like “Invalid value for registry on JPG/JPEG/PNG files” can appear complex, but understanding the role of the registry helps demystify the issue. With careful application of a few key methods—resetting the Photos app, using the SFC tool, or restoring your system—you can overcome this error.

FAQs

Why does this error only affect my photos?

The error is specific to the Photos app, the default photo viewer in Windows. If the app’s registry keys are corrupted, you’ll likely experience this error when opening image files.

Will resetting the Photos app delete my images?

No. Resetting the Photos app will clear the app’s data, but it won’t delete any of your photos.

Can I prevent this error from happening in the future?

Regular system maintenance, including regular backups and updates, can help prevent registry errors. However, since the root cause often involves system-level corruption, it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk.