Ask: Merge iPhoto Libraries

Got an Apple, Mac, or iOS tech question? We have the answer. In this week's installment of Ask, we'll tell you how to combine multiple iPhoto libraries into one.

Question: Somehow I’ve created many iPhoto libraries, some of which are nested within other iPhoto libraries. How do I make it so that I have just one iPhoto library? I get the feeling there is more to it than just dragging the contents of one into the other.

Answer: You are correct — this process is a little more complicated than simply copying one iPhoto library into another. You can do it manually, but it’s usually error-prone and will typically leave you with duplicate photos. The easier way to merge multiple iPhoto libraries is by using the iPhoto Library Manager, which is available for $29 at http://fatcatsoftware.com/iplm.

Using the iPhoto Library Manager, click on the Merge Libraries icon in the toolbar. Here, you will be prompted to drag-and-drop all of the libraries that need merging into the “Source Libraries” section. After doing that, drag-and-drop the library that all of the sources should be merged into using the Destination Library section. We’d advise merging into a new, empty library, and choosing your Desktop as its location. 

One of the tasks that iPhoto Library Manager can perform is automated library merging.

Next, you should choose what happens when the application encounters duplicate files in the “Duplicate Handling” section, and set a few other options in “Options.” When you are done, click “Preview,” and if you are happy with the changes, you can then go ahead with the merge.

After you’ve verified the merge worked and all of your photos are intact, then delete all of the source libraries from your home directory’s Pictures folder, and move the newly created library from your Desktop to the Pictures folder in the Finder. Your new library should load when you fire up iPhoto; you may need to hold down the Option key while starting iPhoto, then select the iPhoto library you wish to open manually.

Ask is written by Cory Bohon, a freelance technology writer, indie Mac and iOS developer, and amateur photographer.

Got a tech question? Email ask@maclife.com.