What is the "photos.db" file in the Photos Library database folder? Do I need that file?

What is the "photos.db" file in the Photos Library database folder? Do I need that file? Reason I ask is that I've been trying to clone my drive and the software keeps getting hung up on the photos.db file.

macOS Sierra (10.12.5)

Posted on Dec 5, 2017 7:23 PM

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Posted on Dec 5, 2017 7:35 PM

Yes - the db (Database) file is the brains of the library - without it you have nothing


What is the format of the drive you are cloning to? If it is not Mac OS extended (journaled) or APFS it will not work -- Where is it safe to store a Photos Library? Requirements for the external drive


LN

4 replies

Dec 5, 2017 7:42 PM in response to LarryHN

It’s Mac OS extended (journaled).


The issue is that my hard drive is failing and I’ve been using SuperDuper to clone my user files before the drive dies. For some reason, when I run superduper it keeps getting hung up on the photos.db file. I’m wondering if there is anything I can do, either to move or edit the file to get superduper to properly copy it.

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What is the "photos.db" file in the Photos Library database folder? Do I need that file?

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