To scan a document on iPhone, open a document scanner, place the page on a contrasting surface, capture it in even light, adjust the detected edges, review the result, and save or export the scan as a PDF.
Step-by-step instructions
Prepare the page
Flatten the document on a surface that contrasts with the paper. Remove objects that cover corners or cast strong shadows.
Open the document scanner
Choose the scanning tool in PDF Scanner and allow camera access when iOS asks for it.
Frame the entire document
Keep all four corners visible. Hold the iPhone parallel to the page to reduce perspective distortion.
Capture and check the edges
Let automatic edge detection find the page, then correct the crop if it missed a margin or included the table.
Add the remaining pages
Continue scanning in the intended reading order when the document has more than one page.
Review and save
Check readability at full size, rotate any sideways pages, then save the finished document as a PDF.
Tips for a better result
- Use bright, even light instead of direct flash on glossy paper.
- Clean the camera lens before scanning small text.
- Name the file with a subject and date so it is easy to find later.
Use PDF Scanner on iPhone or iPad
The app combines this workflow with scanning, OCR, conversion, page tools, compression, and signing. Feature names and screen labels can change between versions.
View on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
Can an iPhone scan more than one page?
Yes. Add pages during the same scanning session, confirm their order, and export them as one PDF.
Why does a scan look skewed?
The camera may not have been parallel to the paper, or an edge may have been detected incorrectly. Retake the page or adjust the crop before saving.
What iOS version does PDF Scanner require?
The current App Store listing requires iOS 17.0 or later.