Photos library files

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Level 1

11 points

Photos library files

I just recently upgraded my Macbook Pro to Yosemite. I also got the update for iPhoto, so it works in the new OS. I have noticed a second file that is being created when I import my older iPhoto library into Photos. What is that file and how do I deal with it when doing backups? Do I need the original iPhoto library file AND the newly created 2nd file if I plan to only use iPhoto? Can the 2nd file stand alone and be used by photos- or do I need both? Thanks.

iMac, OS X Mavericks (10.9.1), Also iPad2, MBP (10.10.4), iPhone 4

Posted on Jul 22, 2015 8:44 AM

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Answer 1

Linc Davis

Level 10

209,739 points

Jul 22, 2015 9:35 AM in response to Markcw98a

If you mean the post-migration iPhoto library, you don't need it unless you still want to use iPhoto.

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Answer 2

Eric Root

Level 10

685,341 points

Jul 22, 2015 10:43 AM in response to Markcw98a

If you plan to only use iPhoto, the Photos Library can be deleted if you want.

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Answer 3

Markcw98a Author

Level 1

11 points

Jul 22, 2015 1:55 PM in response to Eric Root

Thank you both for responding. I am attaching a photo of my photo library folder as a reference. I think you both kind-of answered the question. If I understand it right, the first time I opened Photos and dragged the iPhoto library into it, it took a while to convert the library. I am assuming the 2nd file is the result of that conversion. If I still want to use iPhoto- I need to keep the iPhoto lib. If I plan to use Photos, I need to keep the Photo library, but can delete the iPhoto library. Is that correct? It seems Photos is more efficient- it's library file is smaller. But, I suspect that if I got rid of the iPhoto file then I would not be able to open the library in iPhoto- right? And, I am guessing any pictures I put into Photos, will not be retrievable in iPhoto- since the Photo lib is not readable. Right?

Below, I have 2 libraries. Both have been loaded into Photos also, so there is a corresponding photos file. If there is a link that explains the library file rules, that would be great. Thanks.

Mark

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Answer 4

Eric Root

Level 10

685,341 points

Jul 22, 2015 2:17 PM in response to Markcw98a

You are welcome.

Is that correct?

Yes.

open the library in iPhoto- right?

Correct.

For now, if you don't need the hard drive space, keep both Libraries. You may find things iPhoto can do, but Photos can't.

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Answer 5

LarryHN

Level 10

106,142 points

Jul 22, 2015 5:24 PM in response to Markcw98a

Your question is not clear

each library is stand alone and complete and does not require the others - However deleting the iPhoto library saves little space as there is only one set of original photos and preview photos both hard linked to each library - Photos saves disk space by sharing images with your iPhoto or Aperture libraries - Apple Support

For a few months until you are positive that you do not need or want iPhoto I would keep both the iPhoto and the Photos libraries

LN

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Answer 6

Markcw98a Author

Level 1

11 points

Jul 23, 2015 4:27 AM in response to LarryHN

Thank you Larry, I believe I have it:) I am keeping both for now and will test out Photos. Since I have never used Aperture, I look forward to trying out some of the features Photos is supposed to offer. Your explanation summarized what I was looking for. Thanks again.

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