2 min read
Export Original Photos from iPhone to External Storage
Learn how to export unmodified original photo files from an iPhone directly to an external drive or memory card using a Lightning or USB-C connector.
You can export unmodified versions of your photos and videos directly to an external drive, memory card, or other storage device that is connected to your iPhone (Apple Support).
Connecting storage devices to an iPhone
Connect your storage device directly to your iPhone, or connect it using a Lightning or USB-C connector (Apple Support). Setting up this connection allows you to export unmodified versions of your photos and videos straight to the external drive, memory card, or other connected storage device (Apple Support). As a practical suggestion, verify that your external storage device has enough free capacity to hold the files before you begin the transfer.
Selecting and exporting original versions
Once you have chosen the media you want to transfer, tap the Share button, then tap Export Unmodified Original (Apple Support). Note that for any photos and videos that have been edited, the unmodified original version will be exported instead (Apple Support).
Saving to the external drive and album limits
To finalize the process, tap your storage device below Locations, then tap Save (Apple Support). Be aware that photos and videos located in the Hidden album will not be transferred if the album is locked (Apple Support). If you need to move items stored in that location, a helpful suggestion is to unlock your Hidden album before you start the export.
