How to Send Photos Through Text Message (iPhone and Android)

Sending a photo through a text message is one of the most common things people do with their phones. Whether it is a picture of the grandkids, a receipt you need to share, or a photo of your garden, the process works the same way on both iPhone and Android.

When you send a photo through a text message, your phone uses MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) instead of regular SMS. This happens automatically — you do not need to change any settings. The photo gets compressed slightly to fit through the messaging system, but it is still good enough for viewing on a phone screen.

On iPhone: Open the Messages app and tap the conversation with the person you want to send the photo to (or start a new message). Tap the plus sign (+) to the left of the text field. You will see options including "Photos," "Camera," and others. Tap "Photos" to choose a photo from your library, or tap "Camera" to take a new photo right now. Select the photo you want to send — it appears in the message field. Add a text caption if you want, then tap the blue send arrow.

On Android (Google Messages): Open the Messages app and tap the conversation. Tap the plus sign (+) or the camera icon next to the text field. Choose "Gallery" or "Photos" to pick an existing photo, or "Camera" to take a new one. Select your photo, add an optional message, and tap the send arrow.

You can send multiple photos at once by selecting more than one from your photo library before sending. On iPhone, tap multiple photos to select them, then tap "Add" to attach them all. On Android, tap and hold to select the first photo, then tap additional photos.

Keep in mind that MMS has a file size limit (usually 1 to 3 megabytes depending on your carrier). If you are sending a high-resolution photo, your phone automatically compresses it. For full-quality photos, use email, AirDrop (iPhone), Nearby Share (Android), or a cloud service like Google Photos.