How to Edit iPhone Photos Without Losing the Original

We all edit photos on our iPhones. Usually, when you crop or adjust a picture and hit done, the app overwrites your original file. You can always revert the changes later. But what if you want to keep the untouched original and the new edited version side-by-side?

There is a hidden trick to do exactly that without manually duplicating the file beforehand. By the end of this quick guide, you will know how to save both versions instantly.

Step 1: Crop or edit your photo

First, open the Photos app and select a picture you want to adjust.

1. Tap Edit in the top right corner of the screen.
2. Make your desired changes. In this example, we are using the crop tool to reframe a nighttime shot of a building.

Step 2: Save as a duplicate

Here is where the magic happens. Do not tap the yellow Done button just yet.

1. Tap the circle icon with three dots ... located in the top right corner.
2. Tap Save as Duplicate from the dropdown menu.

You're all set

That is it. When you return to your photo grid, you will see two distinct versions of your picture. Your original, unedited photo is safe. Your newly cropped version sits right next to it. Go give this a spin the next time you want to experiment with your edits.