How to Set Up iCloud Shared Photo Library on macOS 13

This guide explains what an iCloud Shared Photo Library is and provides step-by-step instructions on how to set it up on a Mac running macOS 13 Ventura. You will learn how the feature handles storage and permissions, the prerequisites required to get started, and how to seamlessly manage shared family memories directly from the Photos app.

What Is an iCloud Shared Photo Library?

An iCloud Shared Photo Library allows you to share photos and videos seamlessly with up to five other people (six people total, including the organizer). Unlike traditional shared albums, which compress images and offer limited controls, a Shared Photo Library functions as a separate, full-resolution library where every participant has equal permissions.

Key aspects of the feature include:

  • Equal Access: Every participant can add, edit, favorite, caption, and delete content. Edits and deletions sync across everyone's devices instantly.
  • Storage Allocation: All media in the Shared Library counts exclusively against the iCloud storage plan of the library organizer, not the participants.
  • Smart Organization: The Photos app provides options to switch views between your Personal Library, the Shared Library, or Both Libraries simultaneously.

Prerequisites

Before setting up the feature, ensure you meet the following requirements:

  • Your Mac must be running macOS 13 Ventura or later.
  • All invited participants must have an Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled.
  • iCloud Photos must be turned on (Photos > Settings > iCloud > check iCloud Photos).

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up iCloud Shared Photo Library on macOS 13

  1. Open Photos Settings:
    Launch the Photos app on your Mac. In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click Photos, then select Settings (or press Command + ,).

  2. Access the Shared Library Tab:
    In the Settings window, click on the Shared Library tab located at the top.

  3. Begin Setup:
    Click the Get Started button.

  4. Add Participants:
    Click Add Participants and type the name, email address, or phone number of the people you want to invite (up to five). Once selected, click Continue.

  5. Choose Photos to Move:
    Select which existing photos you want to migrate from your Personal Library to the Shared Library:

    • All My Photos and Videos: Moves your entire photo history.
    • Choose by People or Date: Allows you to filter photos containing specific individuals or taken after a designated date.
    • Choose Manually: Moves nothing automatically, allowing you to select and add photos later.
      Click Continue after making your selection.

  6. Preview the Shared Library:
    Click Preview Shared Library to review what will be shared. If satisfied, click Continue.

  7. Send Invitations:
    Choose to invite participants via the Messages app or by generating a shareable link via Share Link.

  8. Finish Setup:
    Click Done.

Switching Library Views in Photos

Once configured, a dropdown menu appears in the top toolbar of the Photos app on macOS 13. Click this menu to toggle your view:

  • Both Libraries: Displays personal and shared photos together.
  • Personal Library: Hides shared content to display only your private media.
  • Shared Library: Isolates content shared with your group.

To move any photo between libraries later, right-click (or Control-click) the image and select Move to Shared Library or Move to Personal Library.