Maximum files you can airdrop from iPhone 12 to MacBook Pro

I'm attempting to copy my entire Photos library (10,000 Photos, 129 Videos - 49GB) from iPhone 12Pro Max (iOS 16.1) via airdrop to MacBook Pro (mid 2014; mac OS Big Sur 11.7.1).

Doesn't seem to be possible.

My iPhone acknowledges the MacBook Pro via airdrop.

Starts processing, then reports "Failed" without sending.

Trial & error demonstrates the Max number of files seems to be around 520.

There is sufficient HDD space on the MacBook (90GB).

Conducting a search shows this problem has previously been reported by other users.

Apple states there is no limit.

Clearly there is, or seems to be in my case.

Any thoughts much appreciated.

Thanks