I can't update my ipad as my storage is eaten up by photos. Can I delete the photos just from my ipad (leaving them in the cloud to restore), do the update, then restore?
iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi
If you delete you delete them from the device the iCloud copy is also deleted.
Move them to a computer first.
Yes, you could do that or a safer way would be to download them to your computer. You could then make copies and have them backed-up on your computer or external drive, just in case catastrophe strikes your iPad. I also back up the computer to an external drive, so that I always have a back-up of photos.... Check these links...
Transfer photos and videos from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support
How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
Because my pictures are in the cloud, the same pictures are already on my phone and mac air. Time machine backs everything up to an external device. I just need them off of my ipad.
How to delete photos from ipad temporarily
