Back up the photos you cannot replace

A calm sequence

1. 01

   Find where the originals live

   Check phones, computers, memory cards, messaging apps, and old drives. Decide which collection is authoritative before combining or deleting duplicates.

2. 02

   Choose an automatic copy

   Use a service or computer backup that runs without having to remember a cable every week. Confirm whether it preserves original quality and what happens when you delete a photo.

3. 03

   Let the first backup finish

   Keep the device powered and on Wi-Fi. Large libraries can take time. Do not erase or trade in a device because the backup has merely started.

4. 04

   Verify independently

   Sign in from a different device or browser and open several recent and older photos. Check video playback too. A successful test is stronger than a green status icon.

5. 05

   Add separation for irreplaceable files

   Keep another copy on separate storage or with a different trusted system. Disconnect portable storage after the copy so one accident or malicious program cannot affect every version.