Learn how to turn images into PDFs on MacBook or iPhone using Smallpdf, Preview, or the Files app, so you can share, print, or store them.
We’ve all had a moment when a picture needs to become a PDF. Maybe it’s a scanned receipt for work, a photo ID for an application, or just an image you’d rather store as a PDF. On a MacBook or iPhone, you can turn images into PDFs in just a few seconds.
We’ll walk you through the most reliable methods, using Smallpdf, built-in Mac apps, and iPhone features.
How to Turn Image Into PDF on MacBook: Step-by-Step Guide
The easiest way to turn an image into a PDF on MacBook is with Smallpdf’s Edit PDF. It works in your browser, so you don’t need extra software.
Step 1: Go to Edit PDF
Open Edit PDF.
Step 2: Upload Your Image
Drag and drop your file, or import it from Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. Smallpdf supports JPG, PNG, TIFF, and more.
Step 3: Convert and Arrange
Once uploaded, the image opens in the editor. From here, you can add text, combine it with other files, or simply save it as a new PDF.
Step 4: Save Your PDF
Click Export, then download the finished PDF to your MacBook. You can also send it back to your cloud storage.

Turn Image Into PDF on MacBook
Method 2: Use Preview on Mac
Preview is built into every Mac and works well if you’re offline.
Step 1: Open the Image in Preview
Right-click your image, choose Open With, and select Preview.
Step 2: Export as PDF
Go to the top menu and click File > Export as PDF. Enter a file name, choose a location, and hit Save.
This creates a PDF instantly, though you won’t get editing features like in Smallpdf.
Method 3: Combine Multiple Images Into One PDF on Mac
If you have several receipts or assignments, you can merge pictures into one PDF.
Step 1: Select Your Images
Highlight all the images you want.
Step 2: Open in Preview
Right-click, choose Open With > Preview. The images appear in a sidebar.
Step 3: Export as a Single PDF
Go to File > Print > Save as PDF. All the images are merged into one PDF file.
This is especially handy for organizing multi-page scans.
How to Turn Image Into PDF on iPhone
On iPhone, you don’t need complicated apps. You can use the Files app, Notes app, or the Smallpdf mobile app.
Option 1: Smallpdf Mobile App
If you already use Smallpdf on your Mac, the mobile app is a smooth extension.
- Open the Smallpdf app on your iPhone.
- Tap + to upload or take a photo.
- Choose Convert to PDF.
- Save or share the new PDF instantly.
This is the best choice if you want quick editing and cloud access.
Option 2: Use the Files App
- Open your image in the Photos app.
- Tap Share > Save to Files.
- From Files, long-press the image, then choose Create PDF.
Now you’ve got a PDF version saved directly on your iPhone.
Option 3: Use the Notes App
- Open the Notes app and create a new note.
- Tap the camera icon and choose Scan Documents.
- Take a photo of your image. Notes automatically turn it into a PDF.
This method is great when you want your image to look like a scanned document.
How to Turn an Image Into a PDF on a Phone (Other Than iPhone)?
If you’re on Android, you can also use the Smallpdf mobile app. Just upload your image, tap convert, and save the PDF. The process is nearly identical to iPhone.
How to Turn a PDF into an Image on iPhone?
With Smallpdf, you can convert PDF pages into JPG images in just a few taps. Open the file in the Smallpdf mobile app or in your browser, pick PDF to JPG, and export the images you need. You can save them to Photos or share them directly through Messages, WhatsApp, or email.
How to Turn an Image Into a Scanned PDF
The Smallpdf mobile app lets you use your phone’s camera to capture an image and immediately turn it into a flattened PDF. The result is cleaner than just saving a photo, since the app adjusts edges and lighting to look like a real scan.
The Notes app on iPhone also does this, though with fewer editing options. Either way, you’ll end up with a professional-looking scanned PDF instead of just a photo sitting in your gallery.
FAQs
1. How to convert picture to PDF on iPhone without app?
Use the Files app. Save your image to Files, long-press it, and select Create PDF.
2. How to convert picture to PDF on iPhone Notes?
In Notes, start a new note, tap the camera icon, select Scan Documents, and save. It automatically generates a PDF.
3. How to turn image into PDF on iPhone?
You can use the Smallpdf mobile app, the Files app, or Notes. Each lets you convert in just a few taps.
4. How do I turn an image into a PDF?
On Mac, use Smallpdf’s Edit PDF or Preview. On iPhone, use Files, Notes, or the Smallpdf app.
5. How to make a PDF on an iPhone?
Open Notes, scan a document, or use the Smallpdf mobile app to create PDFs from photos, images, or text.
6. How to convert image to PDF on phone?
Download the Smallpdf mobile app for iPhone or Android, upload your image, and save it as a PDF instantly.
