How do I recover data from a password-protected Mac?

An elderly relative has a Mac-mini. He can’t remember his password. I need to gain access to recover all his photos. Is it possible? I don’t want to lug it to the Apple Store only to have them tell me it can’t be done.

The whole point of passwords is to keep people out. Macs are quite secure, but there may be ways of getting the files by taking the hard disk. Try this way:

Bypass and reset the password on any Mac in no time

If that doesn’t work, because there is another level of passwords, try this:

How to Bypass Mac Passwords with Natural Vunerability

If the whole disk has been encrypted, then there is no way.