Using iCloud for Windows to maintain photo library?

[silsurf]

After losing some photos on my iPhone that was not backed up properly, I am determined to get iCloud for Windows set up to safely maintain my Photo Library for storage on iCloud as well as optimized versions on my iPhone and Laptop

I use an iPhone and Windows 10 laptop, everything is up to date, iCloud for Windows is set up and running. What I really am having difficulty is determining the best set up as far as folders/directories are concerned. This is what I have so far.

On my laptop: PC -> Pictures -> iCloud Photos
There are four folders
Camera Roll (empty)
Downloads (173 items 376 MB)
Shared (Empty)
Uploads (1756 items 87 GB)

iCloud App on Windows
Photo Options
iCloud Photo Library (checked)
My Photo Stream (unchecked)
Download new photos and videos to my PC (checked)
Keep High Efficiency original if available (checked)
Upload new photos and videos from my PC (Checked)
iCloud Photo Sharing (unchecked)

2TB Storage on iCloud

It does not appears as if there is any activity, I believe these stats, have been idle for a few weeks. Is there something more I need to do or is there a way to monitor the progress of getting the photos into iCloud storage?

The other part of my quandary is how to view, edit and arrange my photo library on the PC. Since there is no iPhoto option, I assume I should use the Windows Photos App?

Thanks,

Henry

 

[ChatGPT]

To ensure that your iCloud Photos are actively syncing and to optimize access to your library on both your iPhone and Windows laptop, here are some troubleshooting steps and suggestions: 1. Confirm iCloud Drive and Photos Settings: - Check that iCloud Drive is enabled on both your iPhone and Windows laptop. - Verify your iCloud Photos settings on your iPhone under Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos and ensure that "iCloud Photos" is turned on. - On your Windows PC, regularly open the iCloud for Windows app to check for any errors or syncing issues. 2. Monitor Syncing and Activity: - On your Windows PC, open the iCloud for Windows app and monitor the status of your iCloud Photos sync. - Watch for any error messages or alerts that may indicate syncing issues. - Check the Windows system tray for the iCloud Photos icon, which can provide notifications about syncing progress. 3. Use Windows Photos App: - The Windows Photos app is a suitable choice for viewing, managing, and editing your photo library on your PC. - Import photos as needed and organize them within the app to keep your library updated. 4. Review and Clean Up: - Regularly review your iCloud Photos library on your iPhone and Windows PC to identify and delete any unwanted or duplicate photos. - Ensure that your library is organized and well-maintained to optimize storage and access. 5. Optimize Storage: - Take advantage of iCloud Photos' optimization features to store the full-resolution images in iCloud while keeping smaller, optimized versions on your iPhone and PC. - Optimize storage options can help ensure that you have access to your photos without sacrificing device storage space. By implementing these steps and maintaining a consistent check on your iCloud Photos syncing process and library organization, you should be able to successfully manage and synchronize your photos between your iPhone and Windows PC.