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Solved: Portrait Photos Showing in Landscape on Windows 11
It’s usually the latest update to blame
5 min. read
Updated onApril 2, 2024
updated onApril 2, 2024
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A few users report that photos configured to load in portrait mode opened in the landscape orientation instead on Windows 11. As per forum reports, the issue was present in Windows 10 as well.
In some cases, the images appeared fine in File Explorer, but when opened in the Windows Photos app, they automatically switched to landscape mode.
Why is my gallery displaying portrait photos as landscape?
It happens when the program or OS doesn’t read the EXIF orientation assigned to the photo. This is often the case with raw files. Also, corrupt system files or a bug in the OS can trigger the problem.
How do I stop portrait photos from showing as landscape in Windows 11?
Before we start with the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones:
1. Download the necessary codec
WhenMicrosoft Photos automatically rotates raw images, download the necessary codec for the image format. Just search for the format’s codec on Google, download the setup from the official website, and run it to install the missing codec.
For instance, you will need todownload the Nikon RAW NEF codecto display the Nikon RAW NEF image format correctly.
2. Disable AutoRotation from the Registry
Alternatively, you can head to the Display settings and disable theRotation lock. Though, the Registry changes are more effective!
3. Repair the corrupt system files
Repairing the system files also helps when therotate option is greyed out in File Explorer. We also recommend athird-party tooljust in case you want to save time and prevent other possible errors.
4. Update the graphics driver
Often, a corrupt, buggy, or outdated driver can cause issues with the image orientation and display. So, if the photo gallery only displays portrait photos as landscape,update the graphics driver.
And if Windows can’t find a newer version, head to the manufacturer’s website andmanually install the latest driver.
5. Repair/reset the Microsoft Photos app
6. Uninstall the recent Windows updates
7. Perform an in-place upgrade
When nothing else works, you can alwaysperform an in-place upgradeto fix issues with the Windows installation. It’s basically the same as reinstalling the OS, but the saved files and apps remain unaffected.
Can I uninstall Windows 11 2023 Update (23H2)?
Yes, you canuninstall any Windows update, including Windows 11, version 22H3.
To do that, openSettings> go toWindows Update> selectUpdate history> clickUninstallnext toWindows 11 23H2> confirm the change.
You now know all the ways to get things running when the portrait orientation photos are showing in landscape mode on Windows 11. In case the problem remains unresolved, another option is to switch to aneffective photo viewer.
Besides, did you know it’s possible torotate the screen in Windows 11? There are several ways, including a dedicated keyboard shortcut!
For any queries or to share which solution worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:photos app,Windows 11
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Reviewed byAlex Serban
