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Does Backup Change Photo Quality or EXIF?

Watermelon Backup works from original resources rather than preview exports. Metadata handling still depends on the source resources and the Photos import path.

Updated July 17, 2026

During backup

Backup is built around original photo and video resources. The goal is to copy the source resources to your selected Node instead of creating smaller preview files for the backup.

During restore

When importing back into Photos, Watermelon Backup uses the system import path. Capture time and embedded metadata such as EXIF are handled through the original resources and the import behavior provided by iOS.

When results can vary

  • The required backup resources are missing or incomplete.
  • A storage provider changes files outside Watermelon Backup.
  • iOS Photos import behavior differs for a specific media type.

Download Watermelon Backup

Install Watermelon Backup from the App Store to follow this guide on iPhone.

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