Make & keep
Export unmodified originals and IPTC sidecars from Photos
Preserve the imported file format and optionally export assigned IPTC information as an XMP sidecar.
The edited view in Photos and the imported source file serve different purposes. When a recipient needs the original format or when you are moving photographs to another archive, use the unmodified export command. It can also write assigned IPTC information and keywords to a sidecar file, so keep related outputs together.
Request original files
Select the items in Photos and choose File > Export > Export Unmodified Original. In the export dialog, select Export IPTC as XMP if you want assigned IPTC metadata and keywords written in a separate XMP file. Do not expect this sidecar to contain every Photos-only field or the visual edits shown in the library.
Evidence: Apple user guide
Keep associated files together
Choose a naming option that keeps a strip’s frame order clear, then choose a destination folder and export. A Live Photo is delivered as two files—one still image and one video—so retain both together. Do not rename the pair independently if the recipient expects to understand them as one capture.
Evidence: Apple user guide
Separate preservation and sharing copies
After export, compare the original file’s extension and file size with the intended source and keep the XMP sidecar beside it. The edited JPEG export is a separate path for a smaller rendered copy. If you need both, export both into clearly named folders so the new sharing file does not get mistaken for the preservation original.
Evidence: Apple user guide
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- Apple Photos User Guide for Mac — Export photos and videosApple user guide