Updated on February 8, 2021 The context menu in iOS Mail helps you add attachments and photos
What to Know
This article explains how to attach files to iPhone emails. Instructions apply to iOS 12. The procedure is similar for iOS 11 and iOS 10.
Attach Photos or Videos in Mail
While there's no obvious button for it, you can attach photos and videos to emails from within the Mail app. This procedure only works for photos and videos. To attach other file types, check out the next set of instructions. But if attaching a photo or video is all you need to do, follow these steps:
Open the email you want to attach the photo or video to — an email you're replying to or forwarding, or a new email.
In the body of the message, tap and hold the place where you want to attach the file.
Tap the arrow on the right side of the Copy/Paste menu, then tap Insert Photo or Video.
In the Photos app, select the photo you want to insert, then tap it to preview it. Tap Choose to select it.
The photo inserts into the message as an inline image, not as an attachment.
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Attach Other Kinds of Files or From Other Apps
Use the Add Attachment pop-up option to add other kinds of files:
In the body of the email, long-press and select Add Attachment.
Select the document to attach. By default, the Recents view of your iCloud drive displays.
LifewireWhen you select the attachment, it's added to the message. Repeat the procedure to add additional attachments.
Use the Sharing Menu
Most apps include a sharing option that bypasses the need to create a new email and add an attachment to it. For example, if you're working on a Microsoft Word document, share the document as an attachment. That procedure (which differs by app) bundles the open document into the body of an iOS Mail message.
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Sending an email on iPhone (Image credit: iMore)
So you think you know how to use the Mail app? But do you know how to send photos or attachments on iPhone and iPad? Don't worry, it's actually easier than you might think. Just follow these steps.
How to insert a photo or video into an email in the Mail app for iPhone and iPad
Trying to send photos or attachments on iPhone and iPad can be tricky if you've never done it before. Fortunately, once you know what to do, it's a pretty straightforward process. Follow these steps:
- Launch the Mail app from your iPhone or iPad's Home screen or app drawer.
- Tap on the Compose button in the bottom right corner.
- Type in the sender info, subject, and body fields just as you would for a normal email.
How to send photos or attachments on iPhone and iPad: Open the Mail app, tap on Compose, Type the sender info, subject, and body fields. (Image credit: iMore)
- Tap in body. A menu will appear.
- Choose the Photo icon.
- Select the photo or video you'd like to insert. You'll see a preview of the image.
- Tap the Send button in the upper right corner once you've finished writing your email.
How to add an attachment in the Mail app for iPhone and iPad
- Launch the Mail app from your iPhone or iPad's Home screen or app drawer.
- Tap on the Compose button in the bottom right corner.
- Tap and type in the sender info, subject, and body fields just as you would for a normal email.
How to send photos or attachments on iPhone and iPad: Open the Mail app, tap on Compose, Type the sender info, subject, and body fields. (Image credit: iMore)
- Tap in the body. A menu will appear.
- Choose the Attachment icon.
- Select the file you wish to send. You'll see a preview of the image.
- Tap the Send button in the upper right corner once you've finished writing your email.
To send an attachment with your email, tap on the body of the email, choose the attachment icon. Next, select the file you wish to send. Tap the send button (Image credit: iMore)
Congratulations! You can now send photos or attachments on iPhone and iPad without using a Mac or a laptop. You're one step closer to mastering Mail.
Any questions?
Still have questions about how to send photos or attachments on your iPhone or iPad? Let us know below.
Updated October 2020: Updated for iOS 14 and iPadOS 14.
Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He’s currently iMore’s lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.