How-To
← All guidesPhotos, Video & Media

How to Transfer Photos from a Phone to a Windows PC

Copy photos and videos from a phone to a computer for storage or editing.

Quick Answer

Connect the phone with a data-capable USB cable, unlock it, approve access, then import with Windows Photos or File Explorer.

Step by Step

  1. Keep the original file or a backup before making destructive edits or conversions.
  2. Connect the phone with a data-capable USB cable, unlock it, approve access, then import with Windows Photos or File Explorer.
  3. Review the resulting image, video, or shared link to make sure quality and permissions are correct.
  4. Use a new filename for converted or edited copies until you are certain the original is no longer needed.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Avoid uploading private photos or videos to unknown online conversion sites.
  • File extensions alone do not always guarantee compatibility; video codecs, image metadata, cloud status, and application support can also matter.