How do I save files to external hard drive in anticipation of a OS clean install?

How do I save files to an external hard drive in anticipation of a OS clean install?  I'm worried that the new OS will not be able to find my photos.
My data have not been backed up for 2 months, and the OS is corrupted.  Currently working with a senior Apple engineer on this.  It looks like a clean install will be necessary.
This question will also extend iTunes :/

How to correctly move your media:
iTunes: How to move the library to an EHD
iPhoto: How to move the Library to an EHD
It is important that the External Hard Drive is formatted as Mac OS Extended (journaled).

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