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Feb 21, 2025 • Filed to: Manage Device Data • Proven solutions
How can I transfer photos from Mac to iPhone?
Many people who frequently use iOS devices ask this question. Whether it's a single photo memory or the whole collection, photos are mostly stored in MacBooks. When we need them on the iPhone, we have to transfer photos from the Mac. This transfer can be done with more than one approach.
This article will discuss four different proven ways that you can use to transfer photos from Macbook to iPhone.
We will show you three conventional methods. However, the Wondershare Dr.Fone is a killer tool. It can transfer large amounts of photos in mere seconds.
Let's get started!
Before we discuss the details of the transfer method, let's consider the top reasons for using these methods.
Shifting photos to your iPhone frees up significant space. However, a growing photo library can eat up storage faster than you think.
Transferring pictures on an iPhone ensures you can revisit your favorite moments anytime.
Having photos readily available on your iPhone makes sharing easy.
By storing images on multiple devices, you create an extra backup layer. If your Mac runs into trouble, your photos are safely tucked away on your iPhone.
Now, let's move. We'll now show you how to get photos from mac to iphone.
There are so many ways to transfer photos from Mac to iPhone.
You can sync Mac photos to iPhone with iCloud. The Finder and USB cord methods provide a cloud-free way to transfer things. AirDrop's wireless transfer is a lifesaver if you only need a few photos. Lastly, Dr.Fone allows bulk photo transfer with advanced organizational features.
Let's take a closer look:
iCloud Photos is the simplest way to ensure your photos are available across all your devices. This method uses cloud storage to keep your photo library updated automatically. However, there is only 5GB of free storage in iCloud.
How to Copy Pictures From Mac to iPhone Using Photos App
Step 1: Go to the Apple Menu and open System Settings on your Mac. Go to Apple ID and ensure you’re logged in with the same account as on your iPhone.
Step 2: Under iCloud, select Photos on both iOS devices. Toggle on the iCloud Photos. It will enable the syncing of photos.
Step 3: Open the Photos application on Mac. The application usually rests in the bottom toolbar.
Step 4: Press Photos at the top left. After that, click on settings.
Step 5: In the iCloud, check the box for iCloud Photos and connect your devices to Wi-Fi. It will automatically start syncing.
Then, all images in the Photo app will be automatically visible on your iPhone at the end of this procedure.
Now, let's see how to put pictures from Mac to iPhone with AirDrop.
AirDrop is Apple's in-built treasure for sharing files, photos, and videos between devices. It uses Bluetooth to connect the devices and Wi-Fi for the transfer. The AirDrop method is perfectly suited for small, rapid exchanges.
AirDrop is primarily appealing due to its wireless convenience. There's no need for cables, apps, or complicated setups involved. However, AirDrop remains exclusive to Apple devices only and has been known to sometimes mess up large files.
How to Export Photos to iPhone from Mac With the AirDrop
Step 1: Select Go in the menu bar at the top of your screen. Now click on AirDrop.
Step 2: When AirDrop opens, turn on the Bluetooth.
Step 3: In the AirDrop window, select whether your Mac should be visible to Everyone or Contacts Only. Similarly, go to Settings > General > AirDrop on iPhone. Here, select Everyone.
Step 4: Swipe down from the top right to open the Control Center on your iPhone. Click the AirDrop icon so that your device is discovered. Pair with the AirDrop of your Mac.
Step 5: Launch Photos or go to a folder of the pictures you wish to send. Drag the images and then add them in AirDrop.
Step 6: A prompt will appear on your iPhone. Tap Accept to start the transfer.
Once accepted, your photos will automatically land in your iPhone’s Photos app. They are ready to view, edit, or share.
Now, let's show you a specialized photo transfer tool for iOS. We show you how to import pics from Mac to iPhone with Dr.Fone.
Dr.Fone is a toolkit for managing any iOS device. The transfer files feature easily connects two iOS devices and transfers any file minimally. There is no need to worry about your mega photo collection exceeding cloud storage limits.
How to Transfer Photo From Macbook to iPhone with Dr.Fone
Transfer Photos from Mac to iPhone in Clicks.
Check a detailed stepwise guide:
Step 1: Launch Wondershare Dr.Fone on your Mac and connect your iPhone with a USB cable. Once your iPhone is recognized, tap the Quick Transfer button from the home screen.
Step 2: A window will appear. You’ll see a “Select Files.” Click on it to select the photos for transfer. Alternatively, you can drop files directly into Dr.Fone.
Step 3: Dr.Fone will automatically ask you to choose the target app where you will want to store the photos. Select Photos or any other app of your choice.
Step 4: A progress bar will pop up so that you may keep track of the transfer.
Step 5: Once the transfer is complete, a confirmation message will appear. Click on the "i" icon to confirm the location of the transferred photos on your iPhone.
Dr.Fone provides unparalleled speed, accuracy, and flexibility.
Now, let's show you how to export photos to iPhone from Mac with the in-built Mac app, Finder.
This is our last method. Using Finder to transfer photos is also easy. With this method, you can transfer unlimited photos of any size. The only real barriers are the cords and the macOS version. You’ll need that trusty USB cable on hand. This method also fails if your Mac is a little older or missing some Finder features.
How to Import Mac Photos to iPhone with Finder
Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your Mac with a USB cable.
Step 2: Next, open Finder on your Mac. It's located on the bottom toolbar.
Step 3: On the left sidebar of Finder, look for and click on your iPhone listed under Locations. Open the Photos tab and check the box in this window to sync photos.
Step 4: You’ll be given a choice. Sync all your photos or selectively choose albums and folders. After all that, click on Apply.
Step 5: The syncing process will be initiated, and you may monitor the progress. When this transfer is complete, disconnect your iPhone.
We have explored many ways to answer the question, "How can I transfer photos from Mac to iPhone? " You can use any of these methods to transfer your photos. They are all proven and trusted methods.
But if you're looking for speed and efficiency, You can transfer large batches of photos with Wondershare Dr.Fone. It features a clean, intuitive interface with lightning-fast transfer speeds.
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