Viewing a shared link is not the same as saving your files. Download the delivery, check it, and keep a second copy somewhere separate.
Start with the delivery message
Open the link we sent and read any download instructions or access deadline. Use a computer for a large delivery if possible, with a stable connection and enough free space for both the download and any extracted files.
A password or sign-in request depends on how the link was shared. If you cannot access it, contact us with the delivery link and the message you see. Do not assume you need to buy a Dropbox plan.
Save the files, not just the preview
Use the Download option for the shared file or folder. Dropbox’s own file list may let you select items with checkboxes before choosing Download; a shared-link page can look different. If downloading is unavailable, ask us to check the sharing settings.
A downloaded folder may arrive as a ZIP archive. Wait for it to finish, then open the ZIP on Mac or use Extract All on Windows. Work from the extracted folder. Keep the ZIP until you have checked the files.
- Keep the computer connected to power during a large download.
- Use the delivered files rather than screenshots or a screen recording.
- If a large download fails, try smaller folders or ask us for help.
Check the delivery before putting it away
Open photographs and play each film from the downloaded folder. Check the beginning, middle, and end, including sound. Compare what arrived with the delivery message and report missing or damaged files.
A browser preview that looks soft or pauses does not necessarily mean the original file has that problem. Check the downloaded version before judging quality. If it still fails, send us the filename and what happens when you open it.
Organize once, then back up
Keep the delivered folder structure and use a clear parent folder name, such as “2026-10 Family Celebration - Final Delivery.” Make a copy on separate storage before deleting temporary downloads.
Adding a file to a cloud account is not the same as keeping an independent backup. The next guide explains a simple plan to protect the finished work over time.