MIGRATION CHECKLIST / LIBRARYPROOF FIELD NOTE
Apple Photos library migration checklist for Mac
A migration is safer when each claim has an observable basis. Use this checklist before moving a .photoslibrary package, changing its storage volume or relying on an exported folder as the new source of truth.
Before the move
Keep a separate backup, identify the exact library you intend to move and confirm that Photos is not actively changing it. Record package and database metadata before making copies.
Build the preflight
Inventory readable local originals, explicit referenced paths, cloud candidates and unknown records. Hash readable files and retain a database fingerprint from a private read-only snapshot.
Resolve actionable gaps
Reconnect absent reference volumes, review cloud candidates inside Photos and investigate unknown records. Run a new audit after any source-side action; do not reuse a stale receipt.
Estimate with local evidence only
Use the count and bytes of readable, hashed local or referenced-present files. Exclude missing, cloud-candidate, unreadable and unknown records from the estimate.
After the copy
Compare destination counts and bytes with the local estimate, open representative assets and preserve the audit package. Do not delete the original library merely because a copy operation finished without an error.