Using Time Machine to backup a Mac with Photos Library on external SSD frequently re-backs up everything

I've placed my Photos Library on an externally mounted SSD. When I use Time Machine to backup the computer Time Machine will backup the entire Photos Library instead of just what's been added. Is there any solution to avoid this behavior?

Mac Studio, macOS 15.7

Posted on Oct 15, 2025 1:22 PM

Reply
1 reply

Oct 15, 2025 6:06 PM in response to Ken Shimabukuro

I tried an experiment today. I ejected my SSD containing my Photos Library and initiated a Time Machine backup. It backed up nomrally within 2 minutes. I remounted that SSD and Time Machine has been backing up for the past 8 hours and still says 2 hours remaining. But Time Machine has said 2 hours remaining for the past 5 hours. So how do I backup my Photos Library if having it on an external SSD isn't allowing for normal Time Machine backups?

Using Time Machine to backup a Mac with Photos Library on external SSD frequently re-backs up everything

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