How to find duplicate photos on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Finding duplicate photos on a Mac can be accomplished using various methods, including built-in features and third-party applications. This guide provides comprehensive steps for each method to help you efficiently identify and remove duplicates.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin the process of finding duplicate photos on your Mac, ensure you have the following:
  • •macOS version: Ensure your Mac is running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later for optimal compatibility with tools.
  • •Permissions: You may need admin access to install software or modify system settings.
  • •Software: Consider having a duplicate photo finder application like Gemini 2 or Duplicate Photo Cleaner.
  • •Backup: Always back up your photo library using Time Machine or another backup solution before making changes.

Method 1: Using the Photos App

The built-in Photos app in macOS has a feature to help you manage your library, but it does not directly identify duplicates. However, you can manually search for duplicates by sorting and reviewing your library.
  • •Step 1: Open the Photos app by clicking on the Photos icon in the Dock or searching for it in Spotlight (Cmd + Space, then type 'Photos').
  • •Step 2: In the Photos app, click on 'Photos' in the top left corner to view all your images.
  • •Step 3: Sort your photos by date or title by clicking on 'View' in the menu bar, then 'Sort' and select your preferred option.
  • •Step 4: Manually scroll through your library to identify duplicates. You can select a photo by clicking on it, and use the space bar to preview.
  • •Step 5: To delete a duplicate, right-click on the photo and select 'Delete Photo'. Confirm by clicking 'Delete' in the pop-up dialog.
  • •Step 6: To verify, check that the duplicate photo is no longer in your library.

For macOS Monterey (12) and later

In macOS Monterey and later, the Photos app has improved sorting features.
  • •Step 1: Use the 'Search' feature in the top right corner to filter images by keywords or dates.
  • •Step 2: Utilize the 'Albums' feature to view specific categories where duplicates may exist.

For macOS Big Sur (11) and earlier

In earlier versions, the Photos app may not have as robust sorting options.
  • •Step 1: Consider using the 'Moments' view to group photos by time and location, making it easier to spot duplicates.
  • •Step 2: You may need to rely more on manual checking in these versions.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Software

Third-party applications can automate the process of finding duplicate photos, making it faster and more efficient.
  • •Step 1: Download and install a duplicate photo finder like Gemini 2 from the Mac App Store or the official website.
  • •Step 2: Open Gemini 2 and click 'Scan for Duplicates'.
  • •Step 3: Select the folders you want to scan, including the Photos library if necessary.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Scan' and wait for the application to analyze your photos.
  • •Step 5: Review the detected duplicates in the results window. You can choose to keep one or delete all duplicates.
  • •Step 6: Confirm your selections and click 'Remove' to delete duplicates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to find duplicate photos, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Photos Library is locked' - Solution: Ensure the Photos app is closed, then right-click on the Photos Library in Finder, select 'Get Info', and uncheck 'Locked'.
  • •Issue: Duplicate finder software not scanning - Fix: Ensure the software has permission to access your Photos library. Check System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Photos.
  • •Problem: Photos not appearing in the app - Workaround: Restart your Mac and reopen the Photos app to refresh the library.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your photo management skills with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Cmd + A - Select all photos in the Photos app.
  • •Command line: Use the Terminal command 'mdfind -name "[photo name]"' to search for specific photos by name.
  • •Hidden feature: Use Smart Albums in Photos to automatically group photos based on criteria, which can help identify duplicates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using a combination of built-in features and third-party tools is the most effective way to manage duplicates on a Mac.