Exporting photos and videos from your iPhone or iPad to a Windows PC

There are various ways of transferring photos and videos to a Windows PC. Overall, these methods vary depending on where the files are stored: in one of the iOS media library folders (Recents, for example) or in one of ProCamera's internal folders (Lightbox, Private Lightbox). 

• Files in the iOS media library can be exported directly using the native Windows Photos app. 
• Files in the ProCamera internal folder Lightbox can be exported directly using the iTunes app.
• Generally, files stored in the Lightbox/Private Lightbox (inside the app itself) can be transferred to the iOS media library at any time.

To transfer files from an iPhone/iPad to a Windows PC without losing quality, use one of the following methods:

a) Using a cable

All wired transfers require you to connect your iPhone to the PC using the appropriate cable (Lightning, USB-C). If asked, tap "Trust" on your iPhone and enter your passcode.

Transfer via Windows Photos App

1. Open the native Photos app on your PC.

2. Click Import > From a USB device to select your device.
3. Select the files you want to import.

The Windows Photos app itself does not typically compress photos when importing them from an iPhone or any other device. It imports the photos in their original format and resolution. However, if you're noticing a difference in file size or quality, it could be related to the transfer settings of your iPhone. For more info see the How to make sure files will be exported in original file format and quality paragraph below.

More detailed instructions on how to transfer files to a Windows PC using the Windows Photos App can be found here.

Transfer via Windows Explorer

1. Open Windows File Explorer and locate your device under This PC or Computer.

2. Access the DCIM folder on your iPhone, select and copy files, then paste them to your PC. This method prevents any file compression.

Transfer via Third-Party Software

There is dedicated third-party software available which allows even more control when importing/synchronizing iPhone files with your Windows PC.

b) Using Cloud Services (wireless transfer)

Alternatively, you may (automatically) upload files from your device to a cloud service like iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc. and have them synchronize with your PC. Make sure your cloud service doesn't compress files during upload/download.

How to make sure files will be exported in original file format and quality?

When exporting files from an iPhone to a PC, an automatic conversion might take place. For this process, you can adjust settings on your iPhone via Settings > Photos > Transfer to Mac or PC:

• Automatic: Automatically converts photos and videos to compatible formats for the receiving device.
• Keep Originals: Transfers files in their original formats without conversion.

In general, check import settings of utilized apps or services to maintain the original quality of your photos.