"Unlock the hidden power of your iPhone to combine photos instantly without downloading a single new app."
Many users ask how to put two pictures together on iPhone without an app because they don't want to clutter their device with ad-filled third-party software. The good news is that your iPhone has powerful built-in tools that can handle this task effortlessly.
In this guide, we will master the Apple Shortcuts app—a native feature on every modern iPhone—to create a custom tool that combines photos in seconds.
Method: Using Apple Shortcuts
The Shortcuts app is the secret weapon for anyone wondering how to put two pictures together on iPhone without an app. It allows you to build a simple automation that you can use over and over again.
Step 1: Open the Shortcuts App
Find the "Shortcuts" app on your home screen or App Library. It comes pre-installed on all iOS devices. Tap the "+" icon in the top right corner to create a new shortcut.
Step 2: Add "Select Photos" Action
Tap "Add Action" and search for "Select Photos". Tap to add it. Tap the arrow next to "Select Photos" and toggle "Select Multiple" to ON. This allows you to pick the two images you want to combine.
Step 3: Add "Combine Images" Action
Search for "Combine Images" and add it. By default, it will say "Combine Photos Horizontally". You can tap "Horizontally" to change it to "Vertically" or "In a Grid" depending on how you want to put the two pictures together.
Step 4: Add "Save to Photo Album"
Finally, search for "Save to Photo Album" and add it. This ensures your new combined image is saved back to your Camera Roll. Name your shortcut (e.g., "Combine Photos") and tap Done.
Quick Access Tip
You can add this shortcut to your Home Screen! Tap the share icon on your new shortcut and select "Add to Home Screen". Now you have a one-tap button to combine photos anytime.
Alternative: The "Copy Subject" Trick (iOS 16+)
If you want to overlay one photo onto another (like a sticker):
- Open a photo in your Photos app.
- Long-press a subject (person/pet) until it glows.
- Tap "Copy".
- Go to Instagram Stories (or Notes), open a background photo, tap the text tool, and hit "Paste".
- Save the result.
Conclusion
Learning how to put two pictures together on iPhone without an app saves storage space and protects your privacy. The Shortcuts method is professional, customizable, and completely free. Once set up, it's faster than any third-party app you could download.