How to Transfer Photos From iPhone to Mac

Transferring files between iPhone and a Mac used to be a procedure that could only be executed with the use of an USB/Lightning cable connection. However, nowadays there are many backup tricks and methods that you can use to transfer photos from an iPhone or iPad to a Mac. Furthermore, you will get access to other useful tools that enable you to convert or resize pictures on-the-fly. Keep on reading to see how to transfer photos from an iPhone to a Mac:

Transfer Photos Using Finder

Start by connecting your iPhone to your Mac through USB or Lightning cable. After this, use the following steps:

1. Go to Applications -> Finder.
2. Find the Devices section in the sidebar, and select your iPhone.
3. Click Photos -> Sync Photos.
4. You will be prompted to choose the folder, which will be used to sync photos between the two devices.
5. Select the All Photos and Albums option, and press Apply.

Transfer Files Using the Photos App

If Finder is not your preferred method, then you might find the Photos app useful when you want to transfer photos from an iPhone to a Mac. You will once again need to use the Lightning/USB cable to connect the two devices.

1. Open the Photos app on your Mac, and then select your device.
2. You will see all pictures and albums that are stored on your iPhone.
3. Select the Import All New Items option found in the top right corner.

If you wish to only import particular photos, then you can select them one by one and then click Import Selected.

Transfer Photos Using the Image Capture App

MacOS has a surprisingly large number of apps that allow you to transfer photos from an iPhone to a Mac. After Finder and Photos, it is time to take a look at the Image Capture app.

1. Connect your iPhone and Mac using a Lightning/USB cable.
2. Open Image Capture on your Mac, and then select your iPhone.
3. Look at the bottom of the window to find the Import To menu and select the directory you want to use to store photos.
4. Select the photos you want to import manually, or select Import All.

Transfer Photos from an iPhone to a Mac Using AirDrop

The most convenient way to transfer photos is to use the AirDrop feature, which works wirelessly – you will need to have both of your devices connected to the same wireless network, or be connected via Bluetooth. Follow these steps:

1. Access the Settings -> General menu on your iPhone.
2. Find the AirDrop menu, and select the Everyone setting to allow AirDrop transfers.
3. Access the Finder menu on your Mac, and select AirDrop.
4. Once again, use the dropdown menu to select Everyone.

Wait for your devices to pair, and then proceed with the steps below:

1. Access the Photos app on your iPhone.
2. Select the images you want to import, and then select the sharing button.
3. Select your Mac from the menu, and then click the Accept button on your Mac.

If you have any trouble with using AirDrop, then make sure to check our tips on what to do when AirDrop is not working on Mac.