How to Hide and Lock Private Photos on iPhone

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Select images for privacy

   Open the Photos app and navigate to your library or a specific album. Tap Select in the top right corner and tap each photo or video you wish to move to the Hidden album.

2. 15 sec

   Execute the hide command

   With your items selected, tap the Share icon or the three-dot ellipsis button at the bottom of the screen. Tap Hide from the menu options that appear.

3. 10 sec

   Confirm the action

   A dialog box will appear asking to confirm your choice. Tap Hide Photo to move the selected items to the Hidden album.

   Note: Hidden items are removed from your primary library, Memories, and Featured photos.
4. 20 sec

   Access the hidden folder

   Navigate to the Albums tab at the bottom of the Photos app. Scroll down to the Utilities section and tap Hidden.

   Note: The folder will show a lock icon, indicating that authentication is required to view the contents.
5. 15 sec

   Unlock with biometrics

   Once you tap the Hidden album, your iPhone will prompt for Face ID or Touch ID. Once authenticated, the contents of the album become visible.

6. 45 sec

   Disable album visibility

   To further secure the album, open Settings and tap Photos. Toggle off Show Hidden Album to remove the Hidden folder from the Utilities list in the Photos app entirely.

   Note: Toggle this setting back on whenever you need to access your hidden photos again.