How to Send a Photo in a Text Message

Learn how to attach and send a photo from your phone gallery in a text message (SMS or iMessage).

Easy 5 steps iPhone ~8 min February 23, 2026

What You Will Need

  • Your iPhone or Android phone
  • A photo already saved on your phone
  • The phone number of the person you want to send it to

Step 1: Open Your Messages App

Tap the Messages app on your home screen.

  • On iPhone: It is the green icon with a white speech bubble
  • On Android: It is usually called Messages with a blue or purple chat bubble icon

Step 2: Start a New Message or Open an Existing Conversation

You can either:

  • Open an existing conversation: Tap the name of the person you want to send the photo to
  • Start a new message: Tap the compose button (pencil icon or ”+” icon) and type the person’s name or phone number

Step 3: Tap the Photo or Camera Icon

Look for the icon to attach a photo:

  • On iPhone: Tap the + button next to the text box, then tap Photos
  • On Android: Tap the paperclip icon or the photo icon (small image icon) next to the text box

This will open your photo gallery.

Step 4: Select Your Photo

Browse your photos and tap the one you want to send. A blue checkmark will appear on it.

If you want to take a new photo instead, tap the camera option to open your camera, take the photo, and it will be attached automatically.

Step 5: Send the Message

Once the photo is attached, you will see a preview of it in the message box.

  • Tap the Send button (arrow icon)
  • Wait a moment for the photo to upload and send

You will see a progress bar or a “Delivered” confirmation when it is sent.

You Did It!

You sent a photo by text message. The other person will see it in their messages along with any text you added.

Frequently asked questions

Will sending a photo cost me money?

If you send a photo as an MMS (multimedia message), it may cost a small amount depending on your phone plan. If you send it through iMessage (iPhone to iPhone) or over Wi-Fi, it is usually free. Check your phone plan if you are unsure.

Why is my photo blurry when I send it?

Text messages (MMS) compress photos to make them smaller. The photo may lose some quality. For higher quality, send photos through WhatsApp, email, or iMessage instead.

Can I send more than one photo at a time?

Yes. In most messaging apps, you can tap the photo icon and select multiple photos before sending. On iPhone, tap each photo you want to include, then press send.

What if the person says they did not receive my photo?

The photo may be too large for their phone to download, or their phone plan may not support MMS. Try sending it through WhatsApp or email instead.

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