Start with screenshots, then exact duplicates, similar shots and one old year. Make keep, archive or delete decisions in small batches, review every deletion and empty Recently Deleted only after you are sure.
1. Check what is actually using space
Open Settings → General → iPhone Storage and check the Photos figure. If videos dominate, prioritise long clips; if organisation is the problem, screenshots and similar shots may give a faster visible result.
2. Begin with obvious, low-risk clutter
Open Screenshots and remove temporary confirmations, old directions and repeated captures. Then use Photos → Collections → Utilities → Duplicates to merge exact copies before comparing near-duplicates yourself.
3. Work through one year or album
A year, trip or album gives the session a clear finish line. Gallery Dash presents one item at a time so you can keep, archive or mark it for deletion without losing context in a dense grid.
4. Review before you reclaim storage
Inspect the complete delete batch and remove anything uncertain. Deleted items normally stay in Recently Deleted for up to 30 days, and iCloud Photos synchronises the deletion across connected devices.
Common questions
What should I delete first from my iPhone photos?
Start with obvious screenshots, accidental captures and exact duplicates. These categories usually require less emotional judgement than old memories.
How often should I clean my camera roll?
A short weekly or monthly session is easier than a large annual clean-up. Even ten focused minutes can prevent a new backlog.
Can I recover a photo after deleting it?
Usually, deleted items remain in Recently Deleted for up to 30 days. Once permanently removed there, recovery is not guaranteed.