If you want to send photos and videos through the Messages app, but the photo picker is not visible on your iPhone or iPad, follow these quick tips.

First, you can send images and videos via iMessage, MMS, and RCS without leaving the Messages app. All you need to do is tap the plus button and then select Photos. At the bottom of the screen, a small picker appears showing your latest items from your photo library. You can then select one or more items and send them.

Alternatively, you can directly open the photo picker by touching and holding the plus button. If you receive the message "Send Photos," you can directly open the photo picker by tapping the underlined 'photos' text (see the screenshots below).

However, if the above methods do not work, you will need to leave the Messages app and use the iOS Share Sheet in the Photos app to send an image or video. This is possible, but it is a lengthy process and requires navigating between apps.

We will share quick steps to resolve the inconvenience caused by temporary system errors or software glitches. Additionally, you may encounter this issue after ending an iPhone Mirroring or screen mirroring session.

Force Close and Reopen Messages and Photos Apps

Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold until a series of app cards appear. Now, force close the Messages and Photos (if visible) cards by swiping them up. Then, reopen the Messages app and try to access the photo picker. It should work.

Lock and Unlock Your iPhone

Press the side power button to lock the phone. Then, unlock it after a few seconds, return to the Messages app, and check if your photos are visible there.

Restart Your iPhone

Typically, the issues you encounter stem from minor operational errors. Just turn off your iPhone and turn it back on; the problem should be resolved.

Ensure Your iPhone Is Not Overheating

Touch your iPhone, and if it is too hot, turn it off and let it cool down. Then try sending a photo or video from the Messages app again.

Update Software

If your iPhone is running an old iOS version and a new update is available, go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install it.

Reset All Settings

If the above solutions do not work, consider resetting all iOS settings. This will not delete apps, photos, videos, or other personal data from your iPhone, but it will reset all settings to their default state. You can check our special tutorial for more information on this.

If Nothing Helps...

This should not come to this, but if the issue persists, wait for a new iOS update and in the meantime, share photos and videos directly from the Photos app. This is easier than completely erasing your iPhone and setting it up from scratch (this should definitely solve the issue).