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minimejdh
minimejdh
Inspiring
June 3, 2025
Answered

transitioning to external HD for catalog backups and images

  • June 3, 2025
  • 2 replies
  • 159 views

I have an M1 MacBook Pro, 2 TB HD.  I use the uptodate version of LrC.  

Currently, my computer HD stores my catalog, catalog backup, and images.  I am running out of computer HD space and want to move catalog backups and images to an external HD.  It is better practice anyway.  I have the following questions:

  • Is there any need to partition the external HD to separate catalog backups and images?  I wouldn't think so, but want to be sure.
  • How do you determine the optimal external HD size?  
  • What is the best strategy and process to do back-ups of the images?  2nd external HD?  Back-up software?  Backing up to the cloud is not an option for me due to internet speed/bandwidth limitations.
  • Will be running low on USB-C ports. Any recommendations for Hubs? 

Thanks!

Correct answer dj_paige
  • No need to partition the external HD
  • Optimal size? Take the size of your catalog and previews as they exist now, and double it (or triple it)
  • Images can be backed up to the same external HD as the catalog backups. Adjust the advice to include size of photos as well
  • No recommendations for hubs.

 

2 replies

S
Seaquence
Known Participant
July 1, 2025

Recently purchased a great hub - IVANKY Fusion Dock Max 1. Thunderbolt > fast, lots of ports, but kind of expensive.

dj_paige
dj_paigeCorrect answer
Legend
June 3, 2025
  • No need to partition the external HD
  • Optimal size? Take the size of your catalog and previews as they exist now, and double it (or triple it)
  • Images can be backed up to the same external HD as the catalog backups. Adjust the advice to include size of photos as well
  • No recommendations for hubs.

 

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