Check Settings → General → iPhone Storage, decide whether optimisation or deletion solves the problem, review large videos and repeated photos, then empty Recently Deleted only after confirming the batch.
1. Measure device and iCloud storage separately
iPhone Storage shows local use, while iCloud settings show cloud capacity. A full device and full iCloud account are different problems and may need different solutions.
2. Choose optimisation or deletion
Optimise iPhone Storage can keep smaller local versions when enough iCloud space is available. Deletion removes items from the synchronised library and should be used only for content you no longer need.
3. Clean high-impact media first
Long videos, screen recordings, repeated exports and large bursts often recover more space than individual screenshots. Use the storage figures to choose a target rather than guessing.
4. Review before permanently deleting
With iCloud Photos enabled, deletion synchronises across devices. Review the batch, then empty Recently Deleted only when you need the space immediately and no longer need the recovery window.
Common questions
Does deleting photos free storage immediately?
Not always. Items can remain in Recently Deleted, and optimised libraries may hold only smaller local versions. Check storage after Photos finishes updating.
Can I free storage without deleting photos?
Yes. Optimise iPhone Storage can reduce local use when iCloud has enough capacity. A carefully verified computer backup is another option.
Will deleting on iPhone also delete from iCloud?
Yes, when iCloud Photos is enabled. The deletion synchronises across the library and connected devices.