optimize storage on macBook
Cloud Photo Library is already turned on, but photos are still taking up space on my MacBook?
MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.6
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Have you also selected "optimise mac storage" in photos preferences?
If so, then the full size originals of an existing library will only be removed if the space is needed (ie once your mac starts to get full). There is a way to force a fully optimised library, see:
How to force Photos for Mac to Optimise t… - Apple Community