How to Export Originals: Full Guide

Exporting originals means saving the unedited, full-resolution version of a photo or video from an app or device, bypassing any compression, filters, or edits that have been applied. This guide covers the general process across common platforms like Google Photos, Apple Photos, Lightroom, and DSLR cameras, plus what to do when the export isn’t working as expected.

What You’ll Need

The original file stored on your device, cloud service, or memory card.
Access to the app or software that holds the original (e.g., Google Photos, Apple Photos, Adobe Lightroom).
Enough storage space on your computer or external drive to save the exported files.
A stable internet connection if you’re downloading from a cloud service.

Step-by-Step

Identify the platform. The exact steps differ by app, but the core idea is the same: find the file, choose “Export” or “Download,” and select the original quality option.
Google Photos: Open the photo or video. Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top right. Choose “Download.” This saves the original file to your device. For multiple items, select them, then tap the three-dot menu and choose “Download.”
Apple Photos (iPhone/iPad): Tap the photo, then the share button (square with an up arrow). Scroll down and tap “Save to Files.” Choose a location and tap “Save.” This exports the original file, not a compressed version. On a Mac, drag the photo out of the Photos window to a Finder folder, or use File > Export > Export Unmodified Original.
Adobe Lightroom: Select the photo in the Library module. Go to File > Export. In the Export dialog, set “File Settings” to “Original” under “Image Format.” Choose a destination folder and click “Export.” This keeps the RAW file as-is.
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera: Remove the memory card and insert it into a card reader. Open the card in your file explorer. Copy the files from the DCIM folder to your computer. These are the originals—do not edit or rename them in the card.
Check the file. After exporting, verify the file size and dimensions. An original should be larger than a compressed version. For photos, check the pixel dimensions; for videos, check the resolution and bitrate.
Back up the exported files. Once exported, store them in at least two places (e.g., external drive and cloud) to prevent loss.

Common Mistakes

Exporting a compressed version. Many apps default to “High Quality” or “Compact” to save space. Always look for the “Original” or “Unmodified” option.
Using the share sheet instead of export. The share sheet often sends a smaller, compressed copy. Use the app’s dedicated export/download function.
Renaming files during export. Some apps allow renaming, but this can break links to edits or metadata. Keep the original filename unless you have a specific reason.
Exporting from a cloud service without downloading. If you only copy a link, you haven’t exported the file. You must download it to your device.
Forgetting to check storage space. Originals are large. Ensure you have enough free space before starting.

Tips

Use a wired connection for large batches—Wi-Fi can be slow and drop.
Create a folder structure like “YYYY/MM/DD” to keep originals organized.
If you’re exporting from a phone, use a USB cable to transfer to a computer for the fastest speed.
For RAW files, keep them separate from edited JPEGs to avoid confusion.
Test one file first to confirm the export settings are correct before doing a large batch.

Troubleshooting

Export fails or is grayed out. This often means the app doesn’t have the original file locally—it’s only in the cloud. Make sure the file is downloaded to your device first (in Google Photos, tap the cloud icon to download; in Apple Photos, tap the photo to load it fully).

Exported file is still small. Check the export settings again. Some apps have a “High Efficiency” or “Compressed” option that overrides your selection. Also, if the original was already compressed (e.g., a screenshot), the export will be small.

File won’t open after export. This can happen if the file extension is wrong. For example, a RAW file from a camera might need specific software. Rename the extension to match the actual format (e.g., .CR2 for Canon RAW).

Export is very slow. For large videos, the process can take time. Check your internet speed if downloading from cloud. If exporting locally, try closing other apps to free up memory.

Missing metadata (date, location). Some apps strip metadata during export. Look for an option like “Include Metadata” or “Preserve EXIF” in the export settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does exporting an original remove edits?
A: Yes, exporting an original gives you the unedited file. Edits are stored separately in most apps, so the original is untouched.

Q: Can I export originals from Google Photos after the free unlimited storage ended?
A: Yes, you can still download your photos at any time. The storage policy affects uploading, not downloading.

Q: What’s the difference between “Original” and “High Quality” in Google Photos?
A: “Original” keeps the full resolution and file size. “High Quality” compresses the photo to 16MP and videos to 1080p, which reduces quality.

Q: How do I export originals from iCloud?
A: On a Mac, use the Photos app and export unmodified originals. On Windows, go to iCloud.com, select the photos, and download them.

Q: Will exporting originals use up my storage quota?
A: No, exporting (downloading) does not affect your cloud storage quota. Only uploading uses quota.

Q: Can I export originals from Lightroom mobile?
A: Yes, in Lightroom mobile, select the photo, tap the share icon, and choose “Export Original.” This will save the RAW file to your device.

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