Create a new iPhoto library or switch between libraries

You can create multiple photo libraries to organize your photos, albums, slideshows, projects (such as books, cards, and calendars), and then switch between the libraries. For example, you could keep separate libraries for your personal photos and your work photos. Or, if you have a child who takes photos, you can keep his or her photos in a separate library.

You can modify items (such as albums) or edit photos in only one library at a time.

To create a new photo library:

  1. Quit iPhoto.

  2. Hold down the Option key as you open iPhoto.

  3. In the window that appears, click Create New.

  4. Type a name and choose a location to store the new photo library.

  5. Click Save.

    The iPhoto Source list shows your new, empty photo library. Any photos you import are added to this library.

    You can switch to another library you’ve created at any time.

To switch between photo libraries:

  1. Quit iPhoto.

  2. Hold down the Option key as you open iPhoto.

  3. Select the library you want to switch to.

  4. Click Choose.

To move photos from one library to another:

  1. Export the photos from one library.

    This doesn’t delete the photos from the library.

  2. Switch to the library you want to add them to. (See task above.)

  3. Import the photos into the new library.