I have an old Ipod classic (hardly used). How do I sync?

Typically photos are copied to a classic as relatively low resolution images unless you explicitly chose to include the originals. Originals should be visible in a folder in the root of the drive when using Finder, otherwise see the table of recovery tools in Recover your iTunes library from your iPod or iOS device - Apple Community, one might be able to recover images, although I'm afraid that list is somewhat outdated now with some products no longer available.

tt2

See Sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod using your computer - Apple Support. What happens when you try?

tt2

My iPod is 2008 and I'm still running Catalina. Yesterday I attached my iPod to the Computer using a USB cable, it took a bit of time but my computer suddenly realised the iPod was attached and gave me a window with the syncing options. I was able to update it with all my music. I am not sure if this would work with Big Sur.

Hope this helps and good luck!

I don't suppose you know if it's possible to get photographs off the iPod and on to the computer?

Jane

Thank you so much, I'll have a look at what you suggest and maybe I can find them, even low res would be better than nothing.

Jane