> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fotify.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fotify.app/bulk-download.md).

# Bulk Download

Fotify lets you download every photo and video from an event in a single ZIP package. This guide covers how to use this functionality.

## Availability

Bulk download is available on **every paid plan**, regardless of the event's current status (upcoming, live, paused, or finished). The only restrictions are:

* **Free plan**: free events do not include bulk download.
* **Expired gallery access**: once your gallery access window closes, the download is no longer available.

Each paid tier ships with its own gallery access duration (Photo Gallery: 90 days, Premium Event: 365 days after event end). Within that window the download button is always enabled for paid events — organizers commonly use it mid-event to share batches with photographers or social teams.

## How to Download All Photos

1. **Access the Download Option**:
   * From the Photos page in the dashboard, click the "Download All" action — available at any point during a paid event
   * The button is always visible, but disabled on free plans or expired galleries
2. **First-Time Download Process**:
   * If this is the first time downloading, the system will prepare a ZIP file
   * For large collections, you'll receive a notification that preparation is in progress
   * You will receive an email when the download is ready
   * The system displays "Processing" status during preparation
3. **Subsequent Downloads**:
   * If the ZIP file was previously generated, it will be available immediately
   * Click to download the pre-generated ZIP file

## Download States

The download button displays different states:

* **Processing**: System is preparing your ZIP file
* **Ready**: ZIP file is prepared and ready to download
* **Download**: Click to start downloading the prepared ZIP file
* **Failed**: There was an issue creating the ZIP file (try again)

## ZIP File Contents

The downloaded ZIP package contains:

1. All approved event photos in their original quality
2. Organized folder structure based on upload dates
3. Original filenames when available
4. Photo metadata including author and message information

## Technical Considerations

* **File Size**: ZIP files can be large depending on the number and size of photos
* **Download Time**: Depends on your internet connection speed
* **Browser Support**: Works in all modern browsers
* **Mobile Devices**: May require sufficient storage space

## Download Expiration

The download link remains valid:

* For the duration of your event type's gallery access period
* Celebration Plan: 90 days after event end
* Premium Plan: 365 days after event end

## Troubleshooting Download Issues

If you encounter problems:

1. **Download Not Starting**:
   * Check your browser's download settings
   * Try a different browser
   * Ensure you have sufficient disk space
2. **Preparation Taking Too Long**:
   * For very large collections (1000+ photos), preparation may take several hours
   * Check your email for completion notification
   * Contact support if preparation exceeds 24 hours
3. **Failed Status**:
   * Click "Try Again" to restart the preparation process
   * If the issue persists, contact support

## Sharing the Photo Collection

After downloading, you might want to:

1. Create a backup copy on external storage
2. Share with a professional photographer for editing
3. Create custom photo books or prints
4. Share with event participants via cloud storage