Preview is the default image viewer on macOS, allowing you to quickly view and edit images. But sometimes, your Mac might open images with a different application. If you’re wondering how to open a photo in Preview, this article provides a comprehensive guide to ensure Preview is your default image viewer.
Setting Preview as the default app in macOS
Setting Preview as Your Default Image Viewer
The most common way to open a photo in Preview is to simply double-click the image file in Finder. However, if Preview isn’t your default image viewer, here’s how to change that:
- Locate the Image: Find the image file you want to open in Finder.
- Get Info: Right-click on the image file and select “Get Info” from the context menu. Alternatively, select the file and press Command + I. This will open the Info window for that specific file.
- Open With Section: In the Info window, locate the “Open with” section. This section displays the application currently set to open this type of file.
- Choose Preview: Click the dropdown menu next to “Open with” and select “Preview” from the list of available applications.
Setting Preview as the default app in macOS
- Change All: To make Preview the default application for all files of this type (e.g., all .jpg files), click the “Change All…” button below the dropdown menu. A confirmation dialog will appear. Click “Continue” to confirm your choice.
Now, all files with the same extension as the selected image will automatically open in Preview when double-clicked.
Troubleshooting: Preview Not Opening Images
Sometimes, even after setting Preview as the default, it might not open images. Here are a few troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your Mac: A simple restart often resolves temporary glitches that might be preventing Preview from working correctly.
- Clear Launch Services Database: Sometimes, the Launch Services database, which manages file associations, can become corrupted. Rebuilding this database can fix the issue. You can use a Terminal command or a third-party utility to do this. Search online for instructions to “rebuild Launch Services database macOS”.
- Check for Corrupted Preference File: A corrupted Finder preference file can also cause problems with file associations. Try moving the
com.apple.finder.plistfile to the Trash (located in~/Library/Preferences/), restarting your Mac, and then setting Preview as the default again. The system will generate a new preference file upon restart.
Opening Images Directly in Preview
You can also open images directly within the Preview application:
- Open Preview: Launch the Preview application from the Applications folder or by using Spotlight search.
- File Menu: In the Preview menu bar, click “File” and then select “Open…”.
- Select Image: Navigate to the image you want to open and click “Open”.
This method bypasses the default application settings and allows you to open images in Preview regardless of your system preferences.
Conclusion
Opening a photo in Preview on your Mac is generally a straightforward process. By understanding how to set default applications and troubleshoot potential issues, you can ensure Preview remains your go-to image viewer. If problems persist, consult Apple Support or online forums for further assistance.
