How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to Computer

Transfer iPhone photos to your computer using Photos app, File Explorer, or AirDrop. Step-by-step guide for Mac and Windows users.

1. Connect your iPhone to the computer. Use the Lightning or USB-C cable that came with your iPhone. Plug the smaller end into your iPhone and the USB end into your computer. If prompted on your iPhone, tap "Trust This Computer" and enter your passcode.
2. Open the Photos app on Mac or File Explorer on Windows. On Mac, the Photos app should open automatically. If not, open it from the Applications folder or Dock. On Windows, open File Explorer and look for your iPhone under "This PC" or in the sidebar.
3. Select the photos you want to transfer. In Photos app on Mac, click "Import" then select individual photos or click "Import All New Photos." On Windows, double-click your iPhone, then the DCIM folder, then select the photos you want by holding Ctrl while clicking each one.
4. Choose the destination folder. On Mac, Photos imports to your Photos library by default. On Windows, right-click your selected photos and choose "Copy," then navigate to your desired folder and paste. Common destinations include Pictures folder or Desktop.
5. Wait for the transfer to complete. The transfer speed depends on photo quantity and file sizes. Live Photos and ProRAW files take longer than standard JPEGs. Don't disconnect your iPhone until the transfer finishes completely.
6. Verify the transfer and safely disconnect. Check that your photos opened correctly in the destination folder. On Mac, eject the iPhone by clicking the eject button in Finder. On Windows, use "Safely Remove Hardware" in the system tray before unplugging.