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How to recover someone's photos after they die: Google Photos and iCloud

For many families, photos are the one digital thing they really want back. Whether you can recover them depends almost entirely on what the person set up before they died. Without that, getting photos out is slow and not guaranteed, so start early.

Last changed: 19 October 2026

First, check what you already have. Look for shared albums they added you to, photos sitting on their phone or computer (if you can unlock it), and backups on external drives. These can be faster than any formal request.

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Google Photos

If they set up Inactive Account Manager, their chosen contacts get an email with a download link once the account has been inactive for the set period. They may have chosen to share only Photos, or everything. (Google)

If they didn't:

1. Go to Google's deceased user request form.
2. Choose Obtain data from a deceased user's account.
3. Provide the death certificate, your ID, and the deceased's Gmail address.
4. Google reviews each request and only releases data in certain circumstances. It can't give out passwords.

Do not request account closure first. Once Google closes an account, it can't process a later request for its contents.

Don't wait too long. Google can delete accounts that have been inactive for at least two years. (Google)

iCloud Photos (iPhone users)

If they named you as a Legacy Contact, iCloud Photos is included in what you can access. Request access with their access key and death certificate on Apple's Digital Legacy website. Once approved, you can download photos through iCloud.com, or restore their iCloud backup to a device. (Apple)

You'll have three years from approval before the account is permanently deleted. Download everything early. (Apple)

If there's no Legacy Contact, Apple generally needs a court order to release data. In Australia, Apple says alternative documentation may be accepted, so contact Apple Support with the death certificate and grant of probate or letters of administration. (Apple)

What you'll usually need

• Death certificate
• Your ID
• Grant of probate or letters of administration (often needed if there's no legacy contact)
• The account email address

This guide is general information only, not legal, financial or tax advice. Providers change their processes, so always confirm the current steps on the linked official page. For advice on a specific estate, speak with a solicitor, accountant or licensed financial adviser.