Edit Memories Movies in iOS 12 Photos

Apple’s iOS 12 automatically generates dynamic video slideshows known as Memories in the Photos app, but users are not locked into the default automated results. This guide provides an overview of the built-in editing tools available in iOS 12, explaining how to modify titles, adjust mood and pacing, replace background audio, and curate the exact photos and video clips included in your Memory movie.

Quick Edits: Mood and Length

When you play a Memory movie in iOS 12, tapping the screen reveals instant customization controls beneath the video player:

  • Mood Themes: You can swipe horizontally across preset moods such as Dreamy, Sentimental, Gentle, Chill, Happy, Uplifting, Epic, Club, and Extreme. Selecting a mood automatically updates the background music track, pacing, and title font style to match the chosen aesthetic.
  • Duration: Directly below the mood selector, you can switch the video’s length between Short, Medium, and Long (depending on how many assets are in the Memory). The app automatically adjusts clip counts and transitions to fit the selected time frame.

In-Depth Customization: The Edit Menu

For granular control, tapping the Edit button in the upper-right corner opens a dedicated project editor with four primary categories:

1. Title

  • Title Text: Rename the movie and edit the subtitle.
  • Title Style: Choose from various typography and layout styles, independent of the overall mood preset.

2. Music

  • Soundtracks: Browse and select curated tracks organized by genre and mood.
  • My Music: Import and sync any song currently downloaded to your device from your personal music library.

3. Duration

  • Rather than sticking to predefined lengths (Short, Medium, Long), this tool lets you specify a custom duration down to the exact second. The Photos app automatically fits the clips to match the chosen length.

4. Photos & Videos

  • Delete Clips: Tap the trash icon on any selected clip in the timeline to remove it from the final movie.
  • Add Assets: Tap the plus sign (+) at the bottom of the screen to add additional photos and videos from your wider photo library.
  • Trim Video Clips: Select a video clip within the list to drag its start and end handles, trimming the portion that appears in the movie.
  • Set Key Photo: Choose which specific frame or photo serves as the thumbnail and cover image for the Memory.