5 Ways: Fix Photos Stuck on Preparing to Import from iPhone Easily

Learn how to resolve the frustrating problem of photos stuck on preparing to import from iPhone. Our comprehensive guide covers troubleshooting tips and tricks for a seamless importing experience.

Clara by Clara Updated June 7, 2024
Share this:

Why Is Importing Photos from iPhone Taking So Long?

When importing photos from your iPhone to your computer, you might encounter the issue of being stuck at the "photos stuck on preparing to import from iphone" stage. This is a common problem faced by many users and can be due to various reasons:

⛔ Unstable Internet Connection: An unstable internet connection can cause your device to get stuck at the "Preparing to Import" stage.

⛔ Insufficient Storage Space: Importing media requires temporary storage space. If your phone's storage is almost full, it can disrupt the import process and cause delays.

⛔ Incompatible File Sizes and Formats: Attempting to import large files or unsupported formats can make your iPhone struggle, leading to the "Preparing to Import" issue.

⛔ System Glitches or Bugs: System issues can interfere with the import process, causing it to stall. Similarly, an outdated system on your iPhone or computer can cause compatibility problems, resulting in importing or transferring issues.

Don't worry, though! In this article, you will find out how to resolve this issue. We will explore the typical causes for getting stuck at the "Preparing to import from iPhone" state and provide solutions to overcome this problem.

How to Fix Photos Stuck on Preparing to Import from iPhone - 5 Ways

If you're experiencing issues of iphotos stuck on preparing to import, try these five quick fixes you can have a try.

Way 1. Check the Storage Space on iPhone

If your photos aren't importing from your iPhone, it might be due to large file sizes or insufficient storage space on your phone. To resolve this, consider removing unwanted photos, apps, music, and other files. This will free up space, making room for the new photos you're trying to import.

★Tips:
If your iPhone storage fill, here is a guide to help you learn how to manage storage on iPhone.

manage iphone storage

Way 2. Update the iOS on the iPhone

Incompatibility issues can cause the "preparing to import from iPhone photos" problem if your device's iOS is outdated. Updating to the latest version of iOS can resolve apple photos stuck on preparing to import.

You can follow this guide: Open Settings > Tap on General > Go to Software Update > Select Download and Install. Ensure that your phone is well-charged for this step.

iphone software update

Way 3. Restart Your iPhone

Besides, restarting both your computer and iOS devices can be advantageous. This action helps to clear memory, refresh the connection between your devices, and remove logs, caches, and software programs that might be causing issues. Restarting your PC is straightforward and doesn't require any special preparation.

However, restarting iPhones and iPads varies slightly depending on the model.

For iPhone 8 and later: Press and quickly release the Volume + button > Do the same operation on the Volume - button > Press the Side button and release it until you see the Apple logo.

For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Power button and the Volume - button > Release both them after you see the Apple logo.

For iPhone 6s or earlier: Press both the Power button and the Home button > When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.

hard reset iphone

Way 4. Disable iCloud Photo Sync

Disabling iCloud photo synchronization can help avoid interruptions during the photo transfer process. This is a straightforward method to address the issue of “preparing to import from iphone photos stuck”. By turning off photo syncing, you halt processes that require a stable internet connection and may disrupt the transfer.

You can follow these simple steps to turn off iCloud sync:

Step 1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone > Click Apple ID.

Step 2. Go to Photos > Select iCloud Photos.

Step 3. Toggle off the switch next to "Photos" to turn off iCloud photo synchronization.

turn off sync this iphone

★Tips:
If you wanto delete the pictures on your iPhoen, you can go to [4 Ways] How to Permanently Delete Photos from iCloud.

Way 5. Reset Location & Privacy

Sometimes, Macs may have trouble recognizing an iPhone due to location and security settings. If your Mac isn't acknowledging your device during a transfer attempt, resetting the Location & Privacy settings can resolve this problem. You can check the step to do this:

Step 1. Go to Settings > General > Tap on Reset iPhone.

Step 2. Choose your "Reset Location and Privacy option." > Wait for the process to complete.

reset location and privacy

Keep in mind that resetting the Location & Privacy settings will erase any saved location data on your device.

An Easier Way to Transfer Photos from iPhone to Computer

After you learn how to solve “photos stuck on preparing to import from iphone”, if want to avoid an unsuccessful transfer when you send picture from iPhone, there is another easier way - FoneTool. FoneTool provides a seamless and lossless transfer experience, it can effectively transfer photos and other files between iPhone and PC, or between iPhones.

enlightenedKey Features of FoneTool:

  • Lightning-Fast Transfer: Move thousands of photos in mere minutes thanks to its high-speed transfer capability.
  • No Apple ID Limitations: Easily transfer data between iPhones, even if they have different Apple IDs or forgotten credentials.
  • Preview and Selective Transfer: Unlike iTunes or iCloud, you can preview and choose specific files to transfer before initiating the process.
  • Wide Compatibility: Supports various iPhone models, iPads, iPod Touch, and the latest iOS versions.

Using advanced technology, FoneTool ensures data transfers at impressive speeds—transferring 100 photos in just 2 seconds. Download this free tool by clicking the icon below, and follow our guide to transfer photos from iPhone to computer.

Download Freeware Win 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP
Secure Download

Step 1. Connect the iPhone to the PC via USB > Open FoneTool > Tap Phone Transfer > Choose iPhone to PC > Click Get Started.

go to transfer

Step 2. Click the Photos icon > Preview and select the photos you wish to transfer > Click OK.

select photos

Step 3. Set a storage path on your computer > Tap Start Transfer.

start transfer

Conclusion

That’s all about how to fix “photos stuck on preparing to import from iphone”. This post provide 5 easy methods to help you solve this question. No matter which method you choose, I hope you can solve the problem successfully.

In addition, when you need to transfer photos from iPhone to PC and want to avoid transfer failure, you can choose to use FoneTool, a professional transfer software to complete the task.

FoneTool - All-in-one iPhone Data Manager

Transfer, backup and manage data on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch in an easy way.

  • iOS 18 Compatible
  • iPhone 16 Supported

Free iPhone Manager - FoneTool

  • Full/Selective Backup iPhone
  • Transfer between iPhone and PC
  • 1-Click Transfer iPhone to iPhone
  • WhatsApp Backup & Transfer
  • Fully compatible with iOS 18
Download Free
Download icon

100% Secure

Downloading.com Rating
Android
Android Transfer is Now Supported!

Easiest way to transfer photos, videos, music, etc., between Android phone and iPhone.

Learn More >>