
If you’re looking to create a side-by-side photo collage for a before-and-after display on your iPhone, you may think that you need to rely on external software or a computer. However, there’s an easier solution right at your fingertips.
Let’s dive into how you can efficiently merge images together!
Using the Shortcuts App to Combine Images
Your iPhone comes equipped with the Shortcuts app, a powerful tool that allows you to automate various tasks, including the merging of photos. If you don’t see it on your device, you can easily download it from the App Store.
To get started, launch the Shortcuts app and tap the + icon located in the upper right corner to create a new shortcut.

Give your shortcut a name, and then click on the Search Actions field below to proceed.

Enter Select Photos in the search bar and then tap to include it in your shortcut.


Next, utilize the search function again to locate the Combine Images action, which might require some scrolling down.

The default setting will merge the images horizontally, but you can customize this by tapping Horizontally to switch to either Vertically or In a Grid layout, which can be useful for creating collages.

Lastly, add the Save Photo action, which will automatically save your merged image to the Photos app.
After adding this action, press the small “i” button located at the bottom. Enable Show in Share Sheet for easier access in the future. If you want quick access from your home screen, consider choosing Add to Home Screen as well. Tap Done to finalize your creation.

Combining Photos Directly from the Photos App
Now, return to the main screen of the Shortcuts app, where you should find your recently created shortcut at the top. Tap it (avoid pressing the three dots, which lead back to editing).

Select the images you wish to merge, ensuring they are in the order you want them displayed. Then press Add to proceed.

Wait a brief moment as the Shortcuts app processes your request. Open the Photos app afterwards, and you will find your combined image ready for sharing.

You can also initiate this directly from the Photos app. Simply choose any image, and tap the Share button.

Scroll to the bottom of the sharing menu to find your shortcut. Select it to proceed.

Choose the two photos you want to merge and hit the Add button.

Navigating back to the Recents album in Photos, you will see your newly created image!

Creating a Quick Collage Using Instagram
If you’re an avid Instagram user, you likely already have the app installed on your device. This platform can also serve as a great tool for quickly crafting a collage.
Begin by opening the Instagram app and swiping from the left to access the content creation menu. Switch to the Story option at the bottom.

Select the grid icon on the left and tap on Change Grid option to explore various layout options.

Pick your desired layout, then click on the small rectangle in the bottom left to access your photo gallery and fill in the first image for the grid.

Tap on the remaining sections of the grid to add any additional photos you want to feature.
Once you have completed your grid, press the checkmark button to proceed.

Your Instagram Story is now ready to go live, but instead of sharing it, tap the three dots in the upper right corner and choose Save.

The finished image will then be saved in your gallery for future use.
For more creative photo techniques, consider exploring how to post a live photo on Instagram or check out the best ways to organize your images on your iPhone.
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