You receive a "Paint cannot save this file." error message when you try to save changes to a picture in Windows XP Service Pack 2 (889884)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2 (SP2)
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 (SP2)

SYMPTOMS

You try to save the changes to a picture that uses the Exchangeable Image File Format (EXIF) in Microsoft Paint. The picture is not saved, and you receive the following error message:
Filename.jpg

Paint cannot save this file. Save was interrupted, so your file has not been saved.
You cannot edit or save changes to the picture.

CAUSE

This problem may occur when the size of the EXIF-formatted picture is between 63,487 bytes and 65,535 bytes.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, follow these steps:
  1. Make a backup copy of the picture to prevent the loss of your picture.
  2. Open the picture in Windows Picture and Fax Viewer. To do this, in Windows Explorer, right-click the picture, point to Open With, and then click Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.
  3. Click either Rotate Clockwise or Rotate Counterclockwise.
  4. If you are prompted to continue, click Yes.
  5. Click either Rotate Clockwise or Rotate Counterclockwise as many times as needed to rotate the picture 360 degrees.
  6. Click Copy To to save the changes to your picture.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:2/2/2005
Keywords:kbprb KB889884 kbAudEndUser
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