Cannot export photos from iMac to desktop, only to cloud

iMac with OS 15.3.1 I tried to export 2000 images to the cloud, but it was full. I am not going to add more space. What I want to do is to put the photos in a folder on my desktop. But, the 'export' window is "suck" on sending them to the cloud. Not showing the possibility of sending anywhere else. Russlebi

iMac 24″, macOS 15.4

Posted on Nov 13, 2025 10:27 AM

Reply
4 replies

Nov 13, 2025 12:40 PM in response to Russlebi

Russlebi wrote: …But, the 'export' window is "suck" on sending them to the cloud.

Just re-start the Mac.


As others have said, it's not clear what you mean by " export … to the cloud." By "cloud" o you mean iCloud, or some other "cloud" service? There is no function in Photos to export to iCloud, so this is confusing.


If this is iCloud, then that being full will cause all kinds of troubles. As Matti Haveri said, if your Desktop folder is in your iCloud drive folder, then you're going around in circles. You should probably disconnect from iCloud before doing anything else. However, if your Desktop folder is in iCloud Drive, you will need to copy those files to a local folder on our Mac. That may be difficult if you don't have enough free space in iCloud for it to function properly.

Nov 13, 2025 10:44 AM in response to Russlebi

How exactly are you selecting the export function?


The Export function in the File menu of the Photos App, opens a finder Window where you can navigate to any location on your Mac. Including the Desktop folder by selecting a location from the side bar, like "Your Mac" or a Favorite location if you have any.


Is that not happening?


Does it issue an error?



Cannot export photos from iMac to desktop, only to cloud

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