Time machine won't restore lost pictures

[fragrantsound]

Hi, this is my first post so apologies if this is not the right area.

I have been having a problem editing pictures (screen goes white when I click 'edit') so i went to a discussion about it. I followed directions for fixing the problem including renaming my iphoto folder and now I can't find my old pictures. I changed the name back and still no photos. I tried to go to file vault and restore the pictures but I get a message saying that file vault can't be found. I know a little about fixing problems but some of the information about this issue is over my head. I've had this mac for 2 years and until now have been able to trouble shoot all my problems. Please help me

 

[fragrantsound]

found photos, now need help with time machine

Ok, so I found the photos and am currently uploading them. I still don't have a location for time machine and it says 'do not back up'. It did get turned off and has been off for 300 days if that helps at all.