Because of course, trying to add text to images on an iPhone isn’t exactly straightforward if you’re new to it. There are built-in tools that do the job, but they’re kinda tucked away, and sometimes they don’t do everything you want — like adjusting font styles or positioning with precision. Plus, third-party apps give you more control if you’re picky about how your text looks. So, here’s the real-world rundown of how to add text on an iPhone, depending on what kind of editing vibe you’re going for.
How to Add Text to Images on iPhone
Using the built-in Markup tool in Photos (no app needed, but it’s kinda basic)
This method is kinda a no-brainer if you don’t want extra downloads. It’s quick, but don’t expect fancy fonts or anything super customizable. It’s mainly about jotting down a quick note or label. The trick is accessing the Markup feature inside the Photos app, which isn’t immediately obvious sometimes.
- Open the Photos app and pick the picture you want to add text to.
- Hit the Edit button at the top right, then tap the Pencil icon — this opens up the markup options. Sometimes, you have to tap More (the three-dot icon), then choose Markup.
- In the markup toolbar, tap the + (Plus) button at the bottom right and pick Add Text.
- Type your text. You can move it around by dragging, and pinch to resize. It’s not the prettiest, but it works for quick labels or annotations.
- Use the options at the bottom to change text color, and try different fonts (if available).When done, tap Done twice — once in markup, then again to save.
Because it’s built-in, it’s easy to access, but maybe not for more elaborate stuff. On some setups, it fails the first time, then works after a reboot. Weird, but true.
Using Instagram Stories for Text Overlay (a bit clunky but flexible)
If you don’t mind uploading a temporary story, this can be a quick way to get more stylized text on your images. The main reason is that Instagram offers a good selection of fonts, colors, and positioning tools. Plus, the image ends up saved to your camera roll afterward, so it’s kind of a workaround for editing images outside of dedicated apps.
- Open Instagram, switch to the Story tab, and then upload your photo.
- Tap the Text icon at the top right — it looks like Aa.
- Type your message, then move or resize by pinching and dragging. Make sure you get it where you want.
- If everything looks good, tap the three dots at the top right, then select Save from the menu. On some devices, this might be called Save Image. The image with your text will now be stored in your camera roll as a new image, leaving the story behind.
This method is kinda goofy because you’re using a story feature, but it’s quick and gives you more font options than Markup. On one setup it worked perfectly, on another, it’s a bit laggy. Still, it’s decent enough if you’re in a pinch.
Using Photoroom or similar third-party apps (more versatile, but requires download)
If you’re serious about styling your text or need more control, third-party apps like Photoroom are awesome. They let you pick fonts, add shadows, change sizes precisely, and save high-quality images without much fuss. The downside? You gotta install them and maybe handle some ads or in-app purchases.
- Download & install Photoroom or similar app from the App Store.
- Open the app, create or log into your account — or just skip if possible.
- Tap Start from Photo or similar, then select your image.
- Tap the Text icon — usually a T or Text button — and start typing.
- Adjust fonts, colors, and position using the app’s tools. Because this app supports layers, shadows, and styles, it’s way more flexible.
- When you’re done, hit Export or Save to store the image back in your camera roll.
Some folks say they can’t get the text to look perfect right away, but after a couple of tries, it’s smooth sailing. Works well for more professional-looking edits—plus, it’s not tricky to learn.
Adding text to images on the iPhone isn’t as tough as it seems, but knowing your options makes it way easier. Built-in tools are quick for simple notes, Instagram can help with styling, and dedicated apps give all the customization you might need. The key is picking what fits your workflow and patience level.