[mothered]

On the other hand, if I send strictly corrupted photos, it will be cemented that I cannot send any photos and maybe he'll give in and just send the laptop.

I'd personally opt for this and send the corrupted files In their entirety.

But I was thinking, if a single photo wasn't corrupted

What photo does this relate to?

It contains the serial number and the battery information that he is requesting.

Okay, I'd still opt for sending every file In a corrupted format.

If they're still adamant with their request, then you have a backup plan- sending the aforementioned photo.