Hi there! My name is Sarah, and I'm a tech enthusiast with a passion for all things Apple. I've been using iPhones and navigating the ins and outs of the Apple ecosystem for years, and I'm always happy to share my knowledge and help others.

Let's dive into your question about deleting photos from iCloud. It's a common one, and understanding how iCloud Photos works is key to managing your precious memories effectively.

**Deleting Photos from iCloud: A Comprehensive Guide**

Before we get into the specifics, it's crucial to understand that deleting photos from iCloud isn't as simple as dragging them to a virtual trash bin. iCloud Photos is designed to keep your photos and videos synced across all your Apple devices, so any changes you make in one place are reflected everywhere.

**Here's a breakdown of how to delete photos from iCloud, along with important things to remember:**

**1. Deleting from the Photos App (iPhone, iPad, Mac)**

* Open the Photos app on your device.
* Locate the photo(s) you want to delete.
* Select the photo(s). You can tap "Select" in the upper right corner and then tap individual photos, or use a long press to start selecting multiple photos.
* Tap the trash can icon (usually located in the bottom right corner).
* Confirm the deletion. You'll likely see a message warning you that the photo will be deleted from all your devices using iCloud Photos.

Key Point: When you delete a photo using this method, it's moved to the "Recently Deleted" album.

2. Managing "Recently Deleted"

* The "Recently Deleted" album acts as a safety net. Photos stay here for 30 days before being permanently deleted from iCloud.
* To access "Recently Deleted":
* iPhone/iPad: Go to the Photos app > Albums tab > Scroll down to "Utilities" > Recently Deleted.
* Mac: Open the Photos app > Click "Recently Deleted" in the sidebar.

* **Within "Recently Deleted" you have two options:**
* Recover: Select the photo(s) and tap "Recover" to restore them to your photo library.
* Delete Permanently: Select the photo(s) and choose "Delete" to remove them immediately from all your devices.

3. Deleting Directly from iCloud.com

* This method is useful if you don't have your device handy.
* Go to iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
* Click on Photos.
* Select the photo(s) you want to delete.
* Click the trash can icon.
* Confirm the deletion.

Important Considerations:

* iCloud Storage: Deleting photos frees up iCloud storage space. If you're nearing your storage limit, deleting photos can help.
* Shared Albums: Deleting a photo from a shared album removes it for everyone in the album.
* Device Backups: Keep in mind that if you back up your device to iCloud, your photo library is included. So, deleting from iCloud will also remove them from future device restores.

**In a nutshell, deleting photos from iCloud is a multi-step process designed to give you control and prevent accidental deletions. Remember that once a photo is permanently deleted from iCloud, it's gone for good.**

I hope this helps clarify the process! Feel free to ask if you have any more questions.
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On your iOS device (iOS 8 or later) when iCloud Photo Library is not turned onIn the Photos app, tap Albums, then tap My Photo Stream.Do one of the following: Tap a photo. Tap Select, then tap one or more photos.Tap , then tap Delete Photo or Delete [x] Photos.read more >>