Yes, you can use iCloud to back up the contents of your external hard drive that contains your Lightroom-connected original digital negative files. However, unlike the automatic syncing that iCloud performs for your Documents, Desktop, Calendar, and Contacts, backing up an external drive to iCloud requires a more manual or advanced setup. Many Lightroom users have successfully created similar backups by integrating their external drive data into iCloud Drive, and you can do the same with a few steps.
First, confirm that you have enough iCloud storage to accommodate your files, as raw digital negatives can take up a significant amount of space. Since you already have a 2TB iCloud storage plan, you're well-positioned to begin. Next, open a Finder window on your Mac and select iCloud Drive from the sidebar. Create a dedicated folder for your backup—something like “Lightroom External Backup” or “Digital Negative Backup”—to keep your files organized.
Once the folder is created, you can choose between two methods to transfer your files: manual copying or automated syncing using symbolic links. The manual drag-and-drop method is straightforward. Connect your external drive, then copy and paste or drag the desired Lightroom folders into the folder you just created in iCloud Drive. This method is simple but requires you to remember to repeat the process regularly if files change.
For a more automated solution, many users recommend using symbolic links (symlinks), which allow your Mac to treat folders on your external drive as if they are part of iCloud Drive. To set this up, open the Terminal app on your Mac and use a command like the following:
bash
CopyEdit
ln -s /Volumes/YourExternalDriveName/LightroomFolder ~/Library/Mobile\ Documents/com~apple~CloudDocs/Lightroom\ External\ Backup
Replace the first part of the command with the correct path to your Lightroom folder on the external drive, and update the second part to match the iCloud Drive folder you created. This method ensures that any changes or additions you make to the external drive’s folder are automatically mirrored to iCloud, as long as the drive is connected.
Keep in mind that this process depends on the external drive being connected whenever you want to sync changes. You should avoid disconnecting the drive during sync to prevent file corruption. Additionally, syncing large raw files for the first time can take considerable time, so be patient during the initial upload.
To ensure everything is working correctly, regularly check your iCloud Drive using Finder or the Files app on your iPhone. Make sure that new files or edits are appearing as expected. If you prefer a more robust or automatic backup solution without the need to manage symbolic links, consider third-party options like Backblaze or Carbonite, which offer continuous backups of external drives.
In summary, using symbolic links is an effective way to back up your Lightroom files from an external drive to iCloud. It offers an automated syncing experience within the Apple ecosystem, and with a bit of setup, it can provide peace of mind for preserving your valuable photo library.
