Can't transfer photos from Photos without originals

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Level 1

4 points

Can't transfer photos from Photos without originals

We can't transfert/export photos from Photos because we don't have the originals. What can we do to get them back if we don't have those originals anymore ??

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Nov 30, 2021 3:04 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Keith Barkley

Level 7

20,940 points

Nov 30, 2021 6:47 PM in response to lisette163

If you are using a managed library, the originals are safe in the library.

If you are using a referenced library, and deleted the originals, there is not much you can do.

Change where your files are stored in Photos on Mac - Apple Support

If you have a time machine backup you might be able to find the originals.

If you are using iCloud, they are in iCloud and you may need some patience to get them.

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Answer 2

Nov 30, 2021 3:25 PM in response to lisette163

Please give more details

In what way do you not have the originals (or what make you think you don't have them)

What happend to cause this?

Do you have (or have you had) backups of your photos.

Do you use iCloud photos?

Etc.

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Answer 3

lisette163 Author

Level 1

4 points

Dec 1, 2021 7:27 AM in response to Keith Barkley

Thank you. It seems that we use a referenced library, though I am not sure I understand very well the difference (?). I went into Time machine and copied my oldest Photolibrary. Still, it seems that I don't have the originals. I really don't know where are those originals. I understand that my photos are sequestrated in my Mac and I can't use them at all. Very very disappointed. Won't use that Library anymore !

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Answer 4

Dec 1, 2021 4:11 PM in response to lisette163

As long as you use a managed library, you are fine.

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Can't transfer photos from Photos without originals

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