How to Select a Frame from Live Photo: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

Ever stumbled upon a Live Photo on your iPhone and thought, "Wow, I wish I could frame that exact moment!"? Well, you’re in luck because selecting a frame from a Live Photo is easier than you might think. It’s all about finding that perfect shot within the mini video clip that a Live Photo essentially is. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of how to pull off this neat little trick.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Select a Frame from Live Photo

Before we start, let’s clarify what we’re aiming for. A Live Photo records what happens 1.5 seconds before and after you take a picture. By selecting a frame from a Live Photo, you’re choosing one of those moments to save as a still photo.

Step 1: Open the Photos App

First things first, open up the Photos app on your iPhone.

Here, you’ll find all the snaps you’ve taken, including your Live Photos. They’re easy to spot; look for the little ‘Live’ icon in the top left corner of the photo.

Step 2: Select a Live Photo

Next up, pick the Live Photo you want to work with.

Tap on it, and it’ll come to life, showing you the brief animation that makes a Live Photo so special.

Step 3: Tap ‘Edit’

Now, hit the ‘Edit’ button in the top right corner of the screen.

This will take you into the editing mode, where the magic happens.

Step 4: Find the Live Photo Icon

At the bottom of the screen, you’ll see a strip of thumbnails and a Live Photo icon—it looks like a set of concentric circles.

This is your key to unlocking all the different frames in your Live Photo.

Step 5: Scrub Through the Frames

By dragging your finger along the thumbnail strip, you can scrub through all the frames captured in the Live Photo.

Take your time, look closely, and when you see a frame you love, let go.

Step 6: Make Your Selection

Once you’ve found your perfect moment, tap ‘Make Key Photo’.

This will set that frame as the still image you want to save.

Step 7: Save Your Work

Finally, tap ‘Done’ in the bottom right corner, and voila! Your selected frame is now the main image for the Live Photo.

After you’ve completed these steps, the frame you selected from your Live Photo will now be the primary photo that appears in your library. It’s like extracting a single, perfect moment from a brief flicker of time. You can share it, print it, frame it—whatever you like. It’s your memory, captured just the way you want it.

Tips for Selecting a Frame from Live Photo

  • When scrubbing through the frames, take it slow. The perfect shot might be just a split second away.
  • Pay attention to facial expressions and movement. Sometimes the best frame is one where everyone looks their best.
  • If you’re not sure which frame to choose, you can always ask a friend for their input.
  • Remember that lighting can change from frame to frame. Select one that’s well-lit.
  • Don’t forget to hit ‘Done’ when you’re finished. It’s easy to get distracted and leave without saving your changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I revert back to the original Live Photo after selecting a frame?

Yes, you can revert back to the original Live Photo at any time by going back into the ‘Edit’ mode and selecting ‘Revert’ at the bottom right.

Will selecting a frame delete the rest of the Live Photo?

No, selecting a frame will not delete the rest of the Live Photo. You’re simply choosing a new key photo.

Can I select a frame from a Live Photo on an iPad?

Absolutely! The process for selecting a frame from a Live Photo on an iPad is the same as on an iPhone.

Can I select multiple frames from one Live Photo?

No, you can only select one frame to serve as the key photo for a Live Photo.

If I share the Live Photo, will the recipient see the frame I selected?

If you share the Live Photo as a still image, they’ll see the frame you selected. But if you share it as a Live Photo, they’ll see the original key photo.

Summary

  1. Open the Photos App
  2. Select a Live Photo
  3. Tap ‘Edit’
  4. Find the Live Photo Icon
  5. Scrub Through the Frames
  6. Make Your Selection
  7. Save Your Work

Conclusion

Capturing memories with Live Photos is one of the coolest features modern smartphones offer. But knowing how to select a frame from a Live Photo takes those memories to another level. It allows you to preserve not just an image, but the perfect moment within it. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just someone who loves capturing life’s little moments, this skill is a game-changer. So next time you’re scrolling through your gallery, give it a try. You might just find a hidden gem among those animated snapshots. And remember, the key to a great photo isn’t just about the technology—it’s about the story it tells. Happy framing!