Copy iPhoto database to external hard drive - is that possible?

You can copy your iPhoto database to an external hard drive under OS X and thus create a backup of your pictures. We'll explain how it works.

Copy the iPhoto database to an external hard drive

1. Close "iPhoto" and start the "Finder" from the dock.
2. Select the "Pictures" folder in the left bar.
3. Here you will find your "iPhoto library". Click on the icon with two fingers and select "Duplicate".
4. Slowly click twice on the name of the copied library to change it - for example, in "iPhoto library external".
5. Move the "iPhoto library external" file to your external hard drive. The file really needs to be moved, not just copied. Therefore, make sure that it disappears from the images folder.
6. Then start the "iPhoto" program and hold down the old key. Now a menu appears in which you can choose the iPhoto library you want. Click External iPhoto Library.
7. Your collection of images should then appear. Check that all photos from your library have been successfully exported.

Tip: Alternatively, you can move the original library instead of copying it. How to save space on your Mac's internal hard drive.

This practical tip shows you how to create a slideshow with iPhoto.