Photo Storage Calculator

Estimate how much disk or cloud space your photo library requires by combining the number of images with their average file size.

Count original files only. Add backups or exports later if you keep extra copies.
JPEGs often range 2–8 MB; RAW files can exceed 25 MB. Use an average from your camera or catalog.

Actual storage can vary with compression settings, embedded video, burst modes, and editing history. Keep additional capacity for future shoots and follow a 3-2-1 backup strategy for critical images.

Examples

  • 1,200 photos at 6.5 MB each ⇒ 7.62 GB required
  • 800 RAW photos at 28 MB each ⇒ 21.88 GB required
  • 3,500 smartphone shots at 3.2 MB each ⇒ 10.94 GB required
  • 250 marketing images at 18 MB each ⇒ 4.39 GB required

FAQ

Why divide by 1,024 instead of 1,000?

Most drives and OS reports use binary gigabytes (1 GiB = 1,024 MiB). Using 1,000 would slightly underestimate required space.

How do I determine the average file size?

Sample a folder of representative photos, note their total size, and divide by the number of files. Catalog software like Lightroom can show this average automatically.

Does metadata or thumbnail caching add noticeable overhead?

Catalog databases and previews add a small amount—typically less than 5%. Add a buffer if you keep large Smart Previews or sidecar files.

What about cloud storage plans?

Cloud services count originals toward your quota just like local drives. Use this estimate to choose a plan with enough headroom for growth.

Additional Information

  • Storage (GB) = Photo count × Average size (MB) ÷ 1,024 to match binary gigabytes reported by most operating systems.
  • Multiply the result by the number of copies you keep (e.g., originals + backup drive + cloud) to budget total storage.
  • If you shoot mixed formats, calculate separate averages for JPEG and RAW groups, then add the totals together.

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