How to easily share photos with loved ones using shared albums: Video

Photos are no fun — unless you share them with everyone in them. But coordinating the sharing and distribution of lots of pictures can be tricky. Texting photos is easy, AirDropping them is even easier, but one of the simplest ways to share them is to create a shared album.

Everyone involved can upload their pictures and enjoy those taken by others — right from their phones.

Shared albums are especially useful for special events like vacations, reunions and bachelorette parties. You can also use them as your own ultra-private social media platform with friends or family. Just like on social media, photos in shared albums can be liked and commented on.

Watch this video to learn more sharing pictures using a shared albums.

Shared Albums on iPhone 

iPhone users can create a shared album that lives in the Photos app. 

There are two ways to create one: 

1. Select the photos you want to add, tap the three dots, then tap Add to Shared Album.
2. Find the Albums tab in your Photos app, tap Shared, then tap the plus sign (+).

The invite must be accepted before people can view and share their own photos. You can also add more people later and they’ll be able to see all the photos in the shared album.

How to find shared albums on iPhone

Shared Albums live in the Photos app on your phone, iPad or computer.

On your phone or iPad, tap Collections at the bottom of the screen and look for the section called Shared Albums.

On your computer, you should see the albums along the left side of the app.

Shop top-rated related products:  

• Helpful device tracker: Apple AirTag 4-Pack  
• A rugged iPhone case: Casekoo Crystal Clear Protective Case  
• A popular wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger  
• Top-selling screen protector: Ailun Glass Screen Protector  
• The best portable battery pack: Portable Charger with Built-In Charging Cables  
• Durable phone car holders: Beam Electronics Phone Holder  
• An iPhone tripod we love: Aureday Phone Tripod  
• The best USB-C cable: Anker 6 Foot USB-C Cable, Pack of 2 
• Simplified home automation: Remote Control Outlet 

Do Shared Albums take up storage? 

No, shared albums do not take up iCloud storage space, according to Apple. However, there is a limit to the amount of content you can share.    

Individual users can share: 

• Up to 1,000 photos or videos per hour.
• Up to 10,000 photos or videos per day.

Albums are also limited to 5,000 items each.

Google Photo shared album

Google Photos is an easy way to share content across iPhone and Android devices. 

To create a shared album: 

1. Go to Google Photos. 
2. Select Albums. 
3. Select Create album. 
4. Click the Share icon in the top right corner, then choose the people you want to share it with. 
5. Check the permissions to ensure they can add to the album.