How to share a Google Photos album

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

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

Quick Answer

Sharing a Google Photos album can be accomplished through various methods, including using the Google Photos app on mobile devices or accessing it via a web browser. This guide provides detailed steps for sharing albums across different platforms and scenarios.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before sharing a Google Photos album, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Google account with access to Google Photos.
  • •The Google Photos app installed on your mobile device (iOS or Android) or access to the web version.
  • •The album you wish to share must be created and contain photos or videos.
  • •Internet connection for uploading and sharing.

Method 1: Sharing via Google Photos App

This method is ideal for users who prefer mobile devices for sharing albums.
  • •Step 1: Open the Google Photos app on your device.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Albums' at the bottom of the screen.
  • •Step 3: Select the album you want to share.
  • •Step 4: Tap the 'Share' icon (a triangle with dots) located at the top right corner.
  • •Step 5: Choose how you want to share the album (via link, email, or specific contacts).
  • •Step 6: If sharing via link, tap 'Create link' and then share the link through your preferred method.
  • •Step 7: To verify, check the album's sharing settings to see who has access.

For Windows 11

Using Google Photos in a web browser on Windows 11.
  • •Step 1: Open your preferred web browser and go to photos.google.com.
  • •Step 2: Sign in to your Google account if prompted.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Albums' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Select the album you wish to share.
  • •Step 5: Click on the 'Share' icon at the top right.
  • •Step 6: Choose to share via link or specific contacts.

For Windows 10

Using Google Photos in a web browser on Windows 10.
  • •Step 1: Open your web browser and navigate to photos.google.com.
  • •Step 2: Log in to your Google account.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Albums' from the left menu.
  • •Step 4: Select the album to share.
  • •Step 5: Click the 'Share' icon at the top right.
  • •Step 6: Select your sharing method (link or contacts).

Method 2: Sharing via Google Photos Website

This method is suitable for users who prefer using a desktop or laptop.
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser and go to photos.google.com.
  • •Step 2: Sign in to your Google account.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Albums' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Hover over the album you want to share and click on the three vertical dots (More options).
  • •Step 5: Select 'Share' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 6: Choose to share via link or enter the email addresses of the contacts you want to share with.
  • •Step 7: Confirm sharing by checking the album's sharing settings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while sharing albums, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'You don't have permission to share this album' - Solution: Ensure you are the owner of the album.
  • •Issue: 'Link not working' - Fix: Check if the link was copied correctly and that the album is set to 'Anyone with the link can view'.
  • •Problem: 'Album not found' - Workaround: Verify that you are logged into the correct Google account that contains the album.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your sharing experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + C - Copies the link to your clipboard for easy sharing.
  • •Command line: N/A - Google Photos does not support command line sharing.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Shared Albums' to create collaborative albums where others can add photos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For seamless sharing, always ensure that your Google Photos app is updated to the latest version.