How to Copy Referenced Files into a Photo Library?

Shreyas PatilUpdated : November 30, 2023

Copying referenced files into a photo library allows you to consolidate your images into one organized location, while still maintaining links to the original files. This prevents duplication and saves storage space.

When Would You Want to Copy Referenced Files?

There are a few instances when copying referenced files into your photo library would be useful:

Consolidating Project Files

If you have images scattered across multiple folders from different projects or events, copying them as references into your main photo library gathers them in one place for easier access without losing connection to the original files.

Editing Images Non-Destructively

Referenced files allow non-destructive editing - you can apply edits and filters without overwriting the original. The library links to the source file location.

Saving Storage Space

Instead of importing files and creating duplicates, referenced files point back to the originals, so you save storage capacity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Copy Referenced Files in a Photo Library

Copying referenced files into your photo library only requires a few simple steps:

1. Navigate to the Files You Want to Reference

Open your file browser and navigate to the folder location that contains the files you wish to reference. Select the files.

2. Drag Files into Your Photo Library

Open your photo library and find the desired destination album or project folder. Drag your selected files over the photo library.

3. Choose "Link" not "Import"

A dialogue box will open - make sure you select Link rather than Import. Linking creates a referenced file, while importing makes a copy.

4. Confirm Reference Files

Double check your photo library destination folder to confirm the files show up and are properly referenced. You'll see a small icon indicating they are only referenced.

And that's all there is to it! You've now successfully copied referenced files so you can access them conveniently within your photo library without duplicating the data.

Quick Tip to ensure your videos never go missing

Videos are precious memories and all of us never want to ever lose them to hard disk crashes or missing drives. PicBackMan is the easiest and simplest way to keep your videos safely backed up in one or more online accounts. Simply Download PicBackMan (it's free!), register your account, connect to your online store and tell PicBackMan where your videos are - PicBackMan does the rest, automatically. It bulk uploads all videos and keeps looking for new ones and uploads those too. You don't have to ever touch it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Copying Referenced Files

How do I tell referenced files from imported files?

Referenced files can be identified by a small icon next to the filename within your photo library. They also won't show previews or metadata until clicked.

Can I view or edit referenced files?

Yes, you can open, edit, and apply adjustments to a referenced file. But any changes get written back to the original file location, not a copy within the library.

What happens if I delete the originals outside the library?

If the original source files get moved or deleted, the referenced files in your library will show as missing links. It's best practice to maintain the folder structure.

Is there a file size limit for referenced images?

There is no specific file size limit. Your photo editing software and system capabilities are the limiting factors when working with large megapixel images.

How do I convert a referenced file to an imported copy?

To convert a reference to an imported file copy, right click on the referenced photo and choose "Consolidate" or a similar command. Check your software docs for specifics.

Conclusion

Referencing files by linking rather than importing is a great workflow technique that keeps your assets organized while minimizing storage usage. When adding images into your Lightroom catalog or Capture One library, leverage the option to reference files whenever it makes sense. This allows you to incorporate images from various locations while keeping management simple. Just stick to the key steps: navigate, drag, link (not import), and confirm the references. Your photo library will stay consolidated without any unnecessary duplication.