How to hide photos on iPhone
Use the built-in Hidden album in a few taps, then check who can still open it and when a separate vault makes sense.
Open the photo, tap the More button, then tap Hide. The photo moves to the Hidden album under Utilities in the Photos app. Anyone who knows your passcode can open that album.
Hide a photo with the Photos app
- Open the Photos app and tap the photo or video.
- Tap the More button, which looks like three dots.
- Tap Hide and confirm.
To hide several at once, tap Select in your library, choose the items, tap More, then tap Hide. Menu labels can move slightly between iOS versions.
Find and unhide photos
Scroll down in the Photos app to Utilities and tap Hidden. After you unlock the album, open a photo, tap More and tap Unhide.
Stop the Hidden album from showing
Open Settings, go to Photos (under Apps on recent iOS versions) and turn off Show Hidden Album. The album disappears from Utilities until you turn the setting back on. The photos stay on your phone, and anyone with your passcode can turn the setting on again.
When the Hidden album falls short
The Hidden album works well for keeping photos out of your main library when you hand someone your phone. It helps less when the other person knows your passcode, because the passcode opens the album.
In that case you need a lock with a separate secret. Read what to do if your partner knows your passcode for the options.
Frequently asked questions
Where do hidden photos go on iPhone?
They move to the Hidden album. In the Photos app, scroll to Utilities and tap Hidden. iOS asks for Face ID, Touch ID or your passcode before showing it.
Can someone see my hidden photos if they know my passcode?
Yes. The passcode unlocks the Hidden album, so anyone who knows it can open the album.
Do hidden photos sync to my other devices?
Yes, if iCloud Photos is on. Hidden photos also appear in the Hidden album on your other devices signed in to the same Apple Account.