sync selected photos from new imac to new ipad hanging up

Hey there Trystwood,

Congrats on getting your new iPad! We'd like to help by learning more about what's happening, along with ruling out some possible causes.

First, please ensure your Mac is updated: Update macOS on Mac - Apple Support

Also the iPad, even though it's new, there might be some updates for security, and a new version of the iOS can solve strange issues: Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Next, ensure you followed all the steps here: Sync photos between your Mac and iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

Ensure you are using the Apple official cable, and try another Mac port too, in case it's an issue with that: Identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories - Apple Support

Also, try syncing 5 photos. See if anything syncs or if it's all stuck.

If they sync, then try 100. It might be something in the group causing an issue, and if those 100 don't work, breaking that up into smaller batches to see if it's one or a few causing the entire thing to be held up. IF you still have issues, or nothing syncs at all, please answer these questions:

1. Have you been able to sync photos from your Mac to it in the past without any issues? If you did, what changed and when did this start?
2. How many photos are you trying to sync at one time? Depending on the amount, it can take some time to finish syncing.
3. Are you attempting to sync then manually, or are you using iCloud Photos on both devices?
4. Have you tried to sync over Wi-Fi also? Does that work and only the cable option is stalling?

Cheers!