How do I make a live wallpaper from a video?
- Open the Maker in DailyThemes and choose a video, Live Photo or photo from your library.
- Trim to the best few seconds. Short loops feel smoother on the Lock Screen.
- Add an effect and, if you like, a soundtrack. The preview shows the Lock Screen crop, with the clock in place.
- Export: 1080p on the free plan or 4K with Pro. It's saved to Photos as a Live Photo.
- Set it from Photos with Share ▸ Use as Wallpaper, keeping Live on. Full setting guide.
Can I turn a Live Photo into a wallpaper?
Yes. Pick a Live Photo in the Maker, adjust the crop and trim, then export. It comes out re-framed for your Lock Screen.
Live Photos straight from the Camera often have the subject right where the clock goes. The Maker lets you reposition and scale before exporting, so faces and details stay visible.
What sources can the Maker use?
| Source | What happens | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Video | Trimmed into a short loop | Pick a steady clip with gentle motion |
| Live Photo | Re-framed and re-timed | Great for pets, kids and candid moments |
| Photo | Brought to life with motion effects | Works best with simple backgrounds |
1080p vs 4K export
1080p looks great on most iPhones and is free. 4K export, included with Pro, keeps extra detail for larger screens and future crops.
Either way, the export is prepared for your device, so you don't need to fiddle with sizes or aspect ratios.
Tips for a live wallpaper that loops nicely
- Keep it short: two to three seconds usually loops best.
- Avoid shaky handheld clips; slow, steady movement looks best.
- Leave calm space at the top for the time and Lock Screen widgets.
- Remember the Home Screen shows the still frame, so choose a frame you like.
Your drafts are kept in the Maker, with layers, audio and timing still editable, so you can come back and tweak them later.
Ideas for your own live wallpaper
- Pets: a Live Photo of your cat's slow blink or your dog's wagging tail.
- Places: waves on a beach, rain on a window, snow falling past a streetlight.
- Moments: birthday candles, fireworks, a first snowfall with the kids.
Prefer something ready-made? Browse the live wallpaper gallery or check today's Daily Drop.
Frequently asked questions
Is the live wallpaper maker free?
Yes. You can make and export live wallpapers in 1080p for free. Pro adds 4K export.
Will the soundtrack play on my Lock Screen?
Lock Screen wallpapers play without sound. A soundtrack is kept with the video you export and share.
Why does my live wallpaper only move on the Lock Screen?
That's how iOS handles Live Photo wallpapers: the motion plays on the Lock Screen when you wake the phone; the Home Screen shows the still frame.
Are my videos uploaded anywhere?
No. The Maker works on your device. Your photos and videos aren't uploaded.
Does the Maker work on iPad?
Yes, the Maker works on iPad too, with wallpapers framed for the iPad screen.