A backup becomes more trustworthy when you can restore and open the files. A successful copy message is only one part of the check.
What to do
Choose representative originals and editing information, restore them to a separate test location and open them. Compare filenames, counts and the expected image content without replacing your working originals.
A mistake to avoid
Do not test restoration by overwriting the only current project. Use a separate location and keep the test clearly labeled.
A detail worth checking
Test more than one file type if the project uses several. An original image, a sidecar and a final export serve different roles; verifying only the easiest file to open leaves part of the recovery plan untested.
Try this practical check
Restore one RAW file, one final export and the relevant project information. Write down the steps and any missing dependency so the next recovery is less uncertain.
Related reading
3-2-1 Backup Rule: A Simple Plan for Your Files (2026)
