Flipping or reversing photos on an iPhone or iPad can be useful for a number of reasons—correcting mirrored selfies, adjusting image orientation for aesthetics, or simply unleashing creative potential. Fortunately, Apple has built intuitive photo editing tools right into iOS that make flipping photos quick and simple without needing third-party apps.
Whether it’s a selfie taken with the front-facing camera or an imported image, flipping a photo horizontally or vertically can bring new life to your photo library. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reverse photos directly on your iPhone or iPad using iOS’s built-in features, as well as third-party app alternatives for added functionality.
Using the Photos App on iOS
The default Photos app on iPhones and iPads offers powerful editing tools. Here’s how to flip a photo horizontally (mirror) using native iOS functions:
- Open the Photos app.
- Select the photo you want to flip.
- Tap Edit in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Choose the Crop and Rotate icon (a square with arrows).
- In the top-left corner, tap the flip icon (a triangle with a line across).
- Your photo will now be flipped horizontally.
- Tap Done to save the changes.
This is perfect for correcting front-camera mirror selfies or achieving a mirrored visual effect. However, the Photos app only allows horizontal flipping—vertical flipping requires third-party tools.
Using Third-Party Apps for More Options
If you want to flip a photo vertically or access more advanced features, you’ll need a third-party app. Several apps available in the App Store allow enhanced photo editing, including vertical flipping and batch processing.
Recommended apps that enable photo flipping:
- Photoshop Express – Offers both horizontal and vertical flipping with additional effects and filters.
- Snapseed – A Google-owned app providing pro-level editing tools including rotation and flip functions.
- Flip & Rotate – A simple and user-friendly app designed specifically for flipping images.
To use these apps, simply install one from the App Store, import your photo, and look for transform, rotate, or flip options typically found under edit menus.
How to Avoid Mirrored Selfies Automatically
Selfies taken with the front camera in iOS 13 and earlier are automatically mirrored. However, iOS 14 and later offer the ability to capture un-mirrored selfies directly:
- Open Settings.
- Scroll down and tap Camera.
- Toggle on Mirror Front Camera.
By doing this, your selfie will appear as it does in real life, removing the need to flip or reverse afterwards.
Tips for Better Photo Flipping
- Check for text: Be cautious with photos containing writing, as flipping will reverse the letters.
- Use Live Photos carefully: Flipping a Live Photo may flatten it into a still image in some apps.
- Save originals: If you’re unsure, duplicate the photo before editing to preserve the original version.
Flipping photos can be a small tweak, but it often makes a big visual difference. Thanks to iOS’s built-in tools and a wide variety of third-party apps, it’s easier than ever to reverse or mirror images with just a few taps.
FAQs
- Q: Can I flip a video on iOS the same way as a photo?
A: Videos require a third-party app such as iMovie or InShot to flip or mirror content. The Photos app does not support video flipping. - Q: Will flipping a photo affect its resolution?
A: No, flipping an image does not reduce its resolution. The action is non-destructive in the Photos app and simply alters the orientation. - Q: Can Live Photos be flipped without losing movement?
A: Flipping may disable Live Photo features in some third-party apps. Use the built-in Photos app to retain motion where possible. - Q: Is it possible to flip multiple photos at once?
A: The iOS Photos app only allows one photo at a time. Batch flipping requires apps like Photoshop Express or Lightroom.