[2024 Updated] Top 7 Fixes to iMessages not Sending Pictures

iMessage is a popular messaging service provided by Apple, allowing users to send text messages, photos, videos, and more to other Apple devices seamlessly. However, there are instances when users encounter issues with iMessages not sending pictures. This can be frustrating, especially when you want to share special moments captured in photos with friends and family.

In this article, we will explore the potential reasons behind iMessages not sending pictures and provide effective fixes to resolve the issue, ensuring that your iMessage experience is smooth and hassle-free.

Part 1. Why aren’t my iMessages photos sending?

Before we delve into the solutions, let's understand some common reasons why iMessages may fail to send pictures:
⛔ Poor Internet Connection: A stable and active internet connection is essential for sending media files through iMessage. If you have a weak Wi-Fi or cellular connection, the pictures may not upload or send.
⛔ Large File Size: iMessage has certain limitations on the size of files that can be sent. If the photo is too large, it may not be able to send through iMessage.
⛔ iMessage Service Outage: Apple's iMessage servers may experience temporary outages or technical issues, preventing the smooth transmission of messages and media.
⛔ Software Glitches: Sometimes, software bugs or glitches within the iMessage app or iOS can disrupt the sending of pictures.
⛔ Incorrect Date and Time Settings: Incorrect date and time settings on your device can lead to issues with iMessage encryption and authentication, causing messages not to send.
⛔ Recipient issue: If the recipient does not have iMessage or if you're sending pictures to a non-iOS device, the messages will be sent as regular SMS/MMS messages, and additional charges may apply depending on your carrier's plan.

7 Fixes to iMessages not sending pictures

Please be noted that your messages and pictures sent by iMessages show with a blue bubble. If iMessages not sending/receiving pictures, you can follow the solutions below to give it a try.

1# Make sure iMessages is enabled

To utilize the iMessages service, firstly, you have to make sure you have enabled the iMessage service, so that you can send pictures using iMessage. To check if it is enabled or not, here are the steps.

Go to the Settings app > Go to the Messages. From here, enable the iMessage if it is disabled as shown in the figure.

For successful picture sharing using iMessage, it's essential to ensure that iMessage is also enabled on the recipient's device. Both the sender and the recipient need to have iMessage enabled on their respective devices to exchange pictures through iMessage.

2# Check iMessage service status

Sometimes, the iMessage service may experience temporary issues due to server problems. To check the status of the iMessage service, you can visit the official Apple System Status page. On this page, you can find the current status of various Apple services, including iMessage.

Here's how you can check the iMessage service status:
Step 1. Open your web browser and go to the Apple System Status page.

Step 2. Look for the "Messages" section on the page. If the iMessage service is operational, it will show a green dot next to "Messages".

If there is an issue with the iMessage service, it will be indicated by a yellow or red dot.

Checking the iMessage system status can help you determine whether the problem lies with the iMessage server or if there is an issue on your end. If the iMessage service is experiencing downtime, you may need to wait until Apple resolves the problem for normal picture sharing using iMessage to resume.

3# Check & reset network settings

If your iMessages photos not sending on Wi-Fi, you need to ensure that you have a stable internet connection for successful picture sharing. You can turn off and on Wi-Fi or try your cellular data network to try again to send the photos via iMessage.

Just in case, you can reset network settings to avoid any network issue that causes iMessages not sending pictures on iPhone. This will erase all the saved Wi-Fi passcode and carrier connection.

Go to Settings > General > Choose Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Tap Reset Network Settings. Then, enter your passcode to confirm your operation.

4# Compress the photo size

If you encounter issues while trying to send pictures via iMessage due to large file sizes, you can address the problem by reducing the file size. Here is how you can do to avoid iMessages not sending pictures due to large file size.

Step 1. Open the Photos app on your iPhone > Select the photo you want to send.

Step 2. Tap on Edit and reduce the photo size by cropping or adjusting the dimensions.

Save the edited photo and try sending it through iMessage again.

5# Force restart iPhone

If you are still experiencing iMessages not sending/receiving pictures, a simple solution is to force restart your iPhone. This action can often resolve the issue, particularly if it is caused by a minor glitch.

iPhone 8 or later: Press the volume + button and then quickly release. Press the volume - button and then quickly release. Press the side button for seconds until you see the Apple logo.
iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press both the power button and volume - button for seconds until you see the Apple logo.
iPhone 6s or earlier: Press both the power button and the Home button for seconds until you see the Apple logo.

6# Update iOS to the latest version

iOS updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can address various issues, including problems related to iMessage and picture sharing. If you are experiencing difficulties while sending pictures via iMessage, it's a good idea to check for and install any available iOS updates.

Simply follow these steps to check for updates:
Step 1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone and navigate to the General settings.

Step 2. Within the General settings, locate and tap on "Software Update".

Step 3. If an update is available, you will be prompted to download and install it.

7# Contact Apple Support for help

Absolutely, if none of the previously mentioned methods work to resolve the problem with sending pictures via iMessage, it could be indicative of a more complex issue. Potential causes might include a bug in the app, a software glitch, or even a hardware problem.

In such cases, reaching out to Apple Support is the best course of action. They can provide more extensive troubleshooting assistance and help diagnose the root cause of the issue. Apple Support can guide you through the necessary steps to fix the problem or suggest further actions that may be required to resolve the issue with iMessage and picture sharing.

Conclusion

iMessage is an essential communication tool for Apple users, and the ability to share photos through the service adds a personal touch to conversations. However, iMessages not sending pictures can be frustrating. By understanding the common reasons behind this issue and applying the fixes mentioned in this article, hope you can resolve the problem and enjoy a seamless iMessage experience.