Now that Windows 11 is available you may be thinking about upgrading your computer.
I've got a handy guide for those of you using Photoshop Elements Organizer to make sure your photo organisation is not lost.
Adobe has had a full backup system for your catalog built into Organizer for many years. So you will be able to backup your catalog now matter what version of Photoshop Elements you have!
First make a folder for the backup on your external hard drive. Photoshop Elements it doesn't put the backup inside a folder by default so be sure to create a folder or all the files will be in the root directory. This just ends up being messy and confusing.
How to Move Your Catalog to a New Windows 11 Device
- Back up your computer (locally and online)
- Open Photoshop Elements
- Click File > Backup Catalog
- Choose a location for your photos to go (I recommend an external hard drive)
- From the Select Destination Drive list, select the CD, DVD, or hard drive
- Then select your Backup folder
- Open your new Windows device
- Install Photoshop Elements
- Open Elements Organizer
- Skip the Set up
- Click File > Restore Catalog
- Select whether you want to restore the catalog and files to the Original Location or a New Location. For New Location, select the Restore Original Folder Structure if you want to retain the original folder structure.
- All your photos, tags, organization and albums are preserved!
How to Upgrade to Windows 11 in Place
An in place upgrade will leave your files and programs when the upgrade is made. So theoretically you won't need to restore your catalog. However, you should always make a backup, just in case!
- Back up your computer (locally and online)
- Open Photoshop Elements Organizer
- Click File > Backup Catalog
- Choose a location for your photos to go (I recommend an external hard drive)
- From the Select Destination Drive list, select the hard drive
- Then select your Backup folder
- Wait for the Backup to Complete
- Follow the instructions in the Windows 11 Installation Assistant
- When the installation is complete, open Photoshop Elements Organizer
- All your photos, tags, organization and albums are preserved!
Need Hands on Help?
I provide Zoom calls to my customers to help with the technical side of upgrades, so feel free to book me here if you think that would be helpful. The times appear in your timezone.
I hope this helps you as you navigate the upgrade to Windows 11! Do need help with other software upgrading to Windows 11?
Do you have other
PS Pin this ready for when you upgrade!
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