Downloading your photos and videos from iCloud is a straightforward process, accessible across various Apple devices and web browsers. Whether you need to back up your entire library or just a few select memories, this guide provides detailed steps on How To Download Icloud Photos using the Photos app and iCloud.com.
A person is selecting photos on an iPhone.
Downloading iCloud Photos Using the Photos App
The Photos app provides a seamless way to manage and download your iCloud photos directly on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Downloading All Originals on iPhone and iPad
To download and keep original, full-resolution photos and videos on your iOS device:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap your Apple ID at the top.
- Select iCloud, then tap Photos.
- Choose Download and Keep Originals. This will ensure all future photos and videos are automatically downloaded in their original format.
Downloading Originals to Your Mac
For Mac users, the process is similar:
- Open the Photos app.
- In the menu bar, choose Photos > Preferences.
- Click the iCloud tab.
- Select Download Originals to this Mac. This option saves full-resolution copies to your computer’s hard drive.
Downloading from Shared Albums
You can also download photos and videos from shared albums.
Downloading from Shared Albums on iPhone and iPad
- Open the Photos app.
- Navigate to the Albums tab and select Shared Albums.
- Choose the desired album.
- Tap the photo or video you wish to download.
- Tap the Share icon (a square with an upward arrow).
- Select Save Image or Save Video.
Downloading from Shared Albums on Mac
On a Mac:
- Open the Photos app.
- Select the Shared Albums in the sidebar.
- Choose the album and the photo or video.
- Control-click (or right-click) the photo or video.
- Select Import.
Downloading iCloud Photos via iCloud.com
iCloud.com offers another convenient method to download your photos from any device with an internet connection.
Downloading from iCloud.com on iPhone and iPad
- Open a web browser and go to iCloud.com/photos.
- Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Select the photos or videos you want to download. You can select multiple items by tapping Select and then tapping individual items, or you can choose Select All.
- Tap the More button (three dots in a circle).
- Choose Download. You can also select More Download Options to choose the download format: Unmodified Originals, Highest Resolution, or Most Compatible.
Downloading from iCloud.com on Mac or PC
- Visit iCloud.com/photos in a web browser.
- Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Click the photos or videos you want to download. To select multiple items, hold down the Command key (Mac) or Control key (PC) while clicking.
- Click the Download button in the upper-right corner. Alternatively, click More > More Download Options for format selection: Unmodified Originals, Highest Resolution, or Most Compatible.
Conclusion
Downloading photos from iCloud provides flexibility in managing and safeguarding your precious memories. Whether you prefer using the Photos app directly on your device or accessing your library through iCloud.com, Apple offers various methods to suit your needs. Choose the method that best fits your workflow and ensure your photos and videos are safely backed up.
