Google Photos is fantastic for storing memories, but sometimes, you need to declutter. This guide provides a straightforward strategy to delete photos in Google Photos, covering various devices and scenarios. We'll make sure you're comfortable and confident in managing your photo library.
Deleting Photos on Your Computer (Desktop or Laptop)
This is often the easiest way to delete multiple photos at once.
Step 1: Access Your Google Photos Library
Head to photos.google.com and log in with your Google account.
Step 2: Locate the Photos You Want to Delete
Use the search bar, albums, or date filters to find the specific photos. You can even search by keywords if you remember something about the photo (like "beach vacation" or "dog park").
Step 3: Select Photos for Deletion
Click on a photo to select it. To select multiple photos, hold down the Ctrl key (or Command key on a Mac) and click on each photo you wish to remove. You can also select a range of photos by clicking on the first photo, scrolling down to the last photo you want, and then holding Shift while you click on the last photo. This will select everything in between.
Step 4: Delete the Selected Photos
Once selected, a trash can icon will appear. Click it to send your chosen photos to the trash.
Important Note on the Trash: Photos remain in the trash for 60 days before permanent deletion. This gives you a safety net if you accidentally delete something important.
Deleting Photos on Your Mobile Device (Android or iOS)
Deleting photos on your phone is just as easy!
Step 1: Open the Google Photos App
Locate the Google Photos app icon on your phone and tap to open it.
Step 2: Find the Photos to Delete
Use the search bar, albums, or the date view to locate the photos. Similar to the computer method, you can also use keywords in the search bar to speed up the process.
Step 3: Select Photos to Delete
Tap on a photo to select it. Tap on multiple photos to select them at once. Similar to the desktop process, you can select a range by tapping the first photo, scrolling, and then tap-holding the last photo while holding down your finger.
Step 4: Initiate Deletion
Look for a trash can icon (usually in the top right corner or a menu) and tap it. Confirm the deletion when prompted.
The Trash Works the Same Way: Remember, photos in the trash remain for 60 days before permanent removal.
Deleting Entire Albums
Need to remove a whole album? Here's how:
Step 1: Locate the Album
Find the album you wish to delete within your Google Photos library.
Step 2: Access Album Settings
Usually, there's a three-dot menu (more options) next to the album name. Tap or click on this.
Step 3: Select "Delete Album"
You'll see an option to delete the album. Select this option to remove the entire album. Remember that deleting an album only removes the album itself; the photos within it remain in your Google Photos library unless you delete them individually.
Emptying the Trash
After 60 days, Google Photos permanently deletes your items. But if you want to free up space sooner, you can manually empty the trash.
How to Empty the Trash (Computer or Mobile):
Look for the trash icon (it often says something like "Trash" or "Recycle Bin") and then select the option to empty the trash. A confirmation will be necessary before permanent deletion.
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