Can You Upload a Picture Directly to Reddit?

No, Reddit is not an image hosting service. This means you can’t upload a picture directly from your computer or phone to Reddit. Instead, you’ll need to upload your image to an external image hosting platform and then share the link on Reddit. Don’t worry—this process is simpler than it sounds, and we’ll explain every step.

Think of Reddit as a discussion platform where you share links to content, not a place to store files. This is why image hosting services are essential for posting pictures.

Why Doesn’t Reddit Allow Direct Image Uploads?

Reddit’s primary focus is fostering discussions, not storing media. Allowing direct uploads would require significant server space and maintenance, which isn’t part of Reddit’s business model. Instead, Reddit relies on third-party image hosting services to handle the storage and delivery of images. This approach keeps Reddit lightweight and focused on community engagement.

Fortunately, there are plenty of reliable image hosting platforms available, and we’ll discuss the best options later in this guide.

How to Post a Picture on Reddit: 3 Simple Methods

Now that you know you can’t upload images directly, let’s explore the three main ways to share a picture on Reddit. Each method has its own use case, so choose the one that best fits your needs.

Method 1: Submit the Image as a Direct Link

This is the most common and straightforward way to share a picture on Reddit. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose a subreddit that supports thumbnails: Not all subreddits allow image posts, so make sure you’re posting in one that supports thumbnails, such as /r/images or /r/getmotivated.
2. Upload your image to an image hosting service: We’ll cover where to upload your image in the next section, but for now, let’s assume you’ve uploaded it to Imgur and have the URL (e.g., https://imgur.com/a/jElce).
3. Create a new post: Go to the subreddit, click “Create Post,” and select “Link.” Paste the image URL into the link field, add a title, and submit.
4. Check the thumbnail: If the subreddit supports thumbnails, your image will appear next to the post title, making it visually appealing.

Note: Not all subreddits support thumbnails, so check the subreddit rules before posting. If thumbnails aren’t supported, your post will still work, but it won’t have a preview image.

Method 2: Insert the Image Link into a Text Post

If you want to include an image in a text post (e.g., to provide context or tell a story), you can’t embed the image directly. Instead, you’ll share a link to the image using Reddit’s formatting. Here’s how:

1. Upload your image: Again, upload your image to an image hosting service and copy the URL.
2. Create a text post: Go to the subreddit, click “Create Post,” and select “Text.”
3. Add the image link: Use Reddit’s anchor formatting to link to your image. The format is [Link Text](Image URL). For example:
   [Check out this cool photo!](https://imgur.com/gallery/z5gYn4U)
   This will appear as: Check out this cool photo!
4. Submit the post: Add any additional text, then submit.

Tip: For more help with Reddit’s formatting, check out our Reddit Formatting Guide.

Method 3: Insert the Image Link into a Comment

Sharing an image in a comment works similarly to a text post. You can’t embed the image, but you can link to it. Here’s how:

1. Upload your image: Upload it to an image hosting service and copy the URL.
2. Add the link to your comment: Use the same anchor formatting as above (e.g., [See the image here](Image URL)).
3. Post the comment: Submit your comment, and the link will be clickable for other users.

This method is great for adding visuals to discussions without creating a new post.

Where to Upload Your Image?

Since Reddit doesn’t host images, you’ll need to use an external image hosting service. Here are some popular options:

• Imgur: Reddit’s recommended choice, created by a Redditor for Reddit. It’s fast, free, and integrates seamlessly with Reddit.
• Flickr: Great for photographers, with free and paid plans.
• Photobucket: Offers free hosting, but includes ads.
• Imageshack.us: Another reliable option with free and premium plans.
• Freeimagehosting.net: Simple and free, but less feature-rich.
• Postimage.org: Easy to use and free, with no account required.

Why does Reddit recommend Imgur? Imgur was created specifically for Reddit users, and the two platforms share profits and ad traffic. It’s popular, reliable, and designed for Reddit’s needs. However, you’re free to use any service that works for you.

For a step-by-step guide on uploading to Imgur, check out Imgur’s official guide.

Tips for Posting Pictures on Reddit

Now that you know how to post a picture, here are some tips to ensure success:

• Check subreddit rules: Each subreddit has its own guidelines. Some may prohibit image posts, while others require specific formats. Always read the rules before posting.
• Use high-quality images: Blurry or low-resolution images won’t get much attention. Make sure your image is clear and visually appealing.
• Add a descriptive title: For direct link posts, your title is crucial. Make it engaging and relevant to encourage clicks.
• Engage with comments: After posting, respond to comments to build engagement and increase visibility.
• Avoid spamming: Posting the same image across multiple subreddits can be considered spam. Tailor your posts to each community.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

New Redditors often make these mistakes when posting pictures. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Posting in the wrong subreddit: Always check if the subreddit allows image posts.
• Using broken links: Double-check that your image URL works before submitting.
• Ignoring formatting: If you’re linking in a text post or comment, use the correct anchor formatting.
• Not crediting sources: If the image isn’t yours, give credit to the original creator to avoid copyright issues.

For more beginner tips, read our guide on The Top 10 Mistakes New Redditors Make.

Conclusion

Posting a picture on Reddit is easy once you understand the process. Remember, you can’t upload images directly to Reddit, so use an image hosting service like Imgur, Flickr, or Photobucket. Then, choose one of three methods: submit as a direct link, insert a link in a text post, or add a link in a comment. Always check subreddit rules, use high-quality images, and engage with your audience for the best results.

Ready to share your pictures with the Reddit community? Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll be posting like a pro in no time!