Hi shannyannie,
I'm sorry to hear that you are having issues with your iCloud photo storage. Based on what you are describing (looking to use iCloud storage to help conserve storage for your photos on your iPhone), it sounds like you are wanting to use iCloud Photo Library. Amongst its many features, one is that it allows you to optimize your device storage, as described below:
iCloud Photo Library automatically keeps all your photos and videos in the original, high-resolution version. Follow these steps to choose how you store your photos and videos on your device:
- In iOS, tap Settings > iCloud > Photos or Settings > Photos & Camera, then select a storage setting.
- In OS X, click Photos > Preferences > iCloud, then select a storage setting.
If you turn on Optimize [device] Storage, iCloud Photo Library will automatically manage the size of your library on your device, so you can make the most of your device's storage and access more photos than ever. All of your original, full-resolution photos and videos are stored in iCloud while device-size versions are kept on your device. You can download the original photos and videos over Wi-Fi or cellular when you need them.
If you turn on Download Originals, iCloud Photo Library will keep your original, full-resolution photos and videos in iCloud and on your device. Download Originals is the default setting for iOS devices with the free 5 GB storage plan and for all Mac devices.
You need an Internet connection to access an original photo or video that’s stored only in iCloud.
iCloud Photo Library FAQ - Apple Support
Get help with your iCloud Photo Library - Apple Support
Regards,
- Brenden