To show contact photos next to text messages on an iPhone, open Settings > Apps > Messages (on older iOS, Settings > Messages) and turn on Show Contact Photos. Pictures saved for your contacts, or the photos they share with Contact Posters and Name and Photo Sharing, then appear in your conversation list and next to messages in group chats.
Quick Answer
Settings > Apps > Messages > turn on Show Contact Photos.
Turn On Contact Photos
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps > Messages.
- Turn on Show Contact Photos.
Add or Share Photos
| Goal | How |
|---|---|
| Add a photo for a contact | Contacts > the person > Edit > Add Photo |
| Share your own name and photo | Messages settings > Share Name and Photo |
| Update someone’s shared photo | Tap the banner offering an updated photo at the top of the chat |
| Contact Poster for calls | Contacts > My Card > Contact Photo & Poster |
Wondering about the colors? See blue and green message bubbles.
For more privacy in Messages, turn off read receipts.
Troubleshooting
- Only initials show: That contact has no photo saved, and they haven’t shared one with you. Add one in Contacts.
- Photos not showing in one-on-one chats: In individual conversations, photos show in the conversation list and at the top of the chat rather than next to every bubble.
- Setting is missing: Update iOS; on some older models the option was only needed on smaller screens.
- Messages also showing on your iPad? See unlinking iPhone and iPad messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do others see the photo I assigned to them?
No. Photos you add in Contacts are only on your devices.
Can I hide contact photos?
Yes. Turn off Show Contact Photos.
Summary
- Settings > Apps > Messages.
- Turn on Show Contact Photos.
- Add photos in Contacts.
- Share your own with Share Name and Photo.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.