What are these Photos files?

Under "Pictures", there are two huge files on my MacBook.

One is "iPhoto Library.migratedphotolibrary", 7.5 GB.

The other is "Photos Library.photoslibrary", 3.2 GB.

The larger one won't even open. What are these? Are they duplicate photos? Can I safely delete the larger "migrated" file and not lose any pictures? I'd love to delete or shrink them to save space.

macbook

Posted on Dec 26, 2015 10:05 AM

Reply
1 reply

Dec 26, 2015 10:11 AM in response to rsx50

They are not two huge files - they are two files using hard links to share the same source images for the originals and previews - Photos saves disk space by sharing images with your iPhoto or Aperture libraries - Apple Support


Yes you can delete the migrated iPhoto library but it will save very little space - typically for 5% to 20% of the reported size - and it is not recommended since it makes it very difficult if not impossible to move forward is for some reason you want or need the iPhoto library in the future - If you do choose to delete it you will not lose anything except future options - be sure you have a good archive just in case


and iPHoto 9.6.1 will open and let you use it - if you do not keep your software up to date see Can't Update iPhoto because it is not available in the App Store


LN

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

What are these Photos files?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.