Deleting duplicate photos on your Mac can free up valuable storage space and improve your photo library organization. While macOS Ventura offers a built-in “Merge Duplicates” feature, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. This guide will explore safer and more effective methods for removing duplicate photos on your Mac.
One popular option is using third-party applications specifically designed for finding and deleting duplicate photos. Photosweeper is a well-regarded tool that provides a user-friendly interface and robust features for identifying and removing duplicates. It allows for more granular control over the deletion process, minimizing the risk of accidental deletions.
While Ventura’s “Merge Duplicates” feature offers convenience, it can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Users have reported instances where the feature deleted the wrong version of a photo, prioritizing smaller, lower-quality files over larger, higher-quality ones.
The criteria used by the “Merge Duplicates” feature to determine “higher quality” remains unclear, despite inquiries to Apple support. It appears to favor newer files, even if they are smaller and potentially more compressed, which can be problematic for users who back-date scanned or emailed photos.
Furthermore, relying solely on in-app features for managing your photo library can be risky. Software bugs and unexpected errors can lead to data loss or corruption. It’s always recommended to maintain backups of your entire photo library outside of the Photos app. Using external hard drives or cloud storage services provides an extra layer of protection against data loss.
To safely delete duplicate photos on your Mac, consider using a dedicated third-party application like Photosweeper. Always back up your photos before making any significant changes to your library. If you choose to use Ventura’s built-in feature, exercise extreme caution and carefully review the proposed merges before proceeding. Remember, preserving your precious memories is paramount.
Regularly backing up your photos ensures that you have a safety net in case of accidental deletions or data corruption. Consider using Time Machine, a built-in backup feature on macOS, or a third-party backup solution. This proactive approach will safeguard your irreplaceable photos and provide peace of mind.
