Understanding Optimize Mac Storage in Photos for Mac
If you are one of those users whose storage space gets cluttered with GBs of photo files, then it’s time to manage this to avoid troubles. To do this, you can try multiple methods to free up storage space and optimize Photos library.
Here, Mac offers you built-in utility under Photos app to help you deal with it. You can use “Optimize Mac Storage” option under iCloud in Photos app. One of the greatest benefits of using Photos app for Mac is that it automatically syncs all your images files across devices and compress them when needed to free up disk storage. It keeps all your image files compressed on iCloud and automatically load and unload images on your device from iCloud.
When you are on Photos app, it protects you from storage space shortage due to excessive photo files. While it works automatically, it also gives certain optional controls to help you manually manage the features and storage space.
Enable Optimize Mac Storage Option
To enable “Optimize Mac Storage” feature under iCloud, follow these steps:
· Click on Photos option in the Apple menu and select Preferences.
· Select iCloud tab.
· Click “Optimize Mac Storage” to enable it.
Remember this feature will work only when you have iCloud Photo Library turned on. If you haven’t turned on this feature on your Mac, then follow these steps:
· Connect your Mac to Wi-Fi network and launch Photos app.
· Select Preferences.
· Click on the iCloud tab.
· Select checkbox next to iCloud Photo Library.
· Here, you need to select one of the options i.e. Download Originals to this Mac or Optimize Mac Storage.
Once you will enable this feature, it may take several hours to upload all your videos and photos to iCloud Photo Library. Here, when you have already turned on iCloud Photo Library, then you should also enable it on your iPad and iPhone as well.
Once you have completed the process, simply drag & drop photos and videos into the Photos app.
Try other ways
In addition to using “Optimize Mac Storage” option under Photos app, you can also try other ways to optimize and manage photos to reduce clutter and free up valuable disk space. To manage storage space, first head to Apple menu and select About This Mac > Storage.
Here, you will see detailed breakdown of all files and folders that are occupying disk space on your Mac. You can visit individual folder to view and delete unnecessary files. Furthermore, you can also try third-party photo optimization tools to manage and optimize photo files on your Mac.
Conclusion
Using “Optimize Mac Storage” feature, you can easily manage and optimize image files on your Mac. It not only helps you free up GBs of disk space, but it will also speed up your overall system performance. This built-in feature on Mac makes it easy for you to manage mountains of photos in most effortless manner. In addition to this feature, we have also discussed other ways to free up storage space on your Mac. If you know more such ways, then feel free to share in the comments below.