How to make a photo collage on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To make a photo collage on your iPhone, you can use various apps available on the App Store, such as Canva, Pic Collage, or the built-in Photos app. Each method allows you to combine multiple images into a single collage with customizable layouts and designs.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 13 or later (iOS 15 or later recommended for best app compatibility).
  • •Access to the App Store to download necessary apps.
  • •Photos you wish to include in the collage saved in your Photos app.
  • •Internet connection for downloading apps and templates.

Method 1: Using the Photos App

The built-in Photos app allows you to create simple collages using the 'Memories' feature, which automatically generates collages from your photo library.
  • •Step 1: Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the 'Albums' tab at the bottom of the screen.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Memories' to view automatically created collages.
  • •Step 4: Tap on a memory to view it, and if you like it, tap 'Share' to save or share the collage.
  • •Step 5: If you want to create a new collage, tap 'For You' and scroll to 'Memories' to see suggested collages.
  • •Step 6: To verify it worked, check if your collage appears in the 'Memories' section.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure your photos are backed up and check for iOS updates.

For iOS 15 and later

iOS 15 introduced enhanced collage features within the Photos app.
  • •Tap 'For You' to see personalized collage suggestions.
  • •Select a memory and tap 'Play' to view a slideshow of images.

For iOS 14 and earlier

Older versions may have limited collage features.
  • •Access 'Memories' but expect fewer customization options.
  • •Collages may not be automatically generated as frequently.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps

For more advanced collage-making options, consider using third-party apps like Canva or Pic Collage.
  • •Step 1: Download and install the Canva or Pic Collage app from the App Store.
  • •Step 2: Open the app and create an account if prompted.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Create a Design' or 'Collage' option from the home screen.
  • •Step 4: Choose a template or start from scratch.
  • •Step 5: Tap 'Photos' to access your photo library and select images.
  • •Step 6: Arrange your photos in the template and customize with text or stickers.
  • •Step 7: Tap 'Save' or 'Share' to export your collage.
  • •Step 8: Verify by checking your Photos app for the saved collage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while creating a collage, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to access photos' - Solution: Ensure the app has permission to access your photos in Settings > Privacy > Photos.
  • •Issue: 'Collage not saving' - Fix: Check your storage space under Settings > General > iPhone Storage and free up space if needed.
  • •Problem: 'App crashes' - Workaround: Restart the app or your iPhone and try again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your collage-making experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Most collage apps do not support keyboard shortcuts.
  • •Hidden feature: Use layering in Canva to create depth by overlapping images.
  • •Tip: Use the grid feature in Pic Collage to align images perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using dedicated collage apps provides more flexibility and design options than the built-in Photos app.