Comparing photos is a common task for anyone who uses their iPhone to take pictures. Whether you’re trying to decide which shot is sharper, better composed, or simply prefer one edit over another, viewing images side by side can be incredibly helpful. If you’re wondering how to achieve this directly on your iPhone, here’s what you need to know.
While the native Photos app on your iPhone doesn’t offer a direct, built-in feature to display two arbitrary photos side by side for comparison, there are still effective methods to review similar images closely. One quick way to compare photos within the Photos app is by using the arrow keys when viewing a photo in full screen. By swiping to select your first image and then entering full screen mode, you can then rapidly toggle back and forth between subsequent photos using the left and right arrow buttons. This allows you to quickly switch between similar shots to identify subtle differences and make your selection.
For users seeking a true side-by-side comparison, especially for more in-depth photo assessment, third-party apps provide enhanced functionalities. One such application mentioned by users is “Photos Workbench” from Houdah Software. Although it’s noted as a beta software, it’s designed as a companion tool to the standard Photos app and includes features like side-by-side image comparison, along with functionalities for geocoding and keyword management. It’s important to remember that using beta software comes with a need for caution and regular backups of your photo library.
Another feature within the iPhone Photos app that might seem related is the “Duplicate” album. This tool automatically identifies potential duplicate photos in your library, displaying them side by side. However, this function is specifically for managing duplicates and not intended for general photo comparison of any images you choose. It’s useful for decluttering your library but doesn’t extend to comparing different, non-duplicate images.
In conclusion, while Apple’s native Photos app on iPhone lacks a dedicated side-by-side comparison mode for any selected photos, you can effectively use the swipe and arrow key method for quick comparisons. For a dedicated side-by-side view, exploring third-party applications like Photos Workbench could be beneficial, keeping in mind the considerations for using beta software. Understanding these options allows you to efficiently compare your photos on your iPhone and choose the best shots.
