> There's totally a middle ground between 'full access and no access'. Apps can show UIImagePickerControllers and CNContactPickerViewControllers whenever they want, without any permissions. They then get the photo[s]/contact info the user picks.

If they don't use this control you can also inject whatever photos you want into most apps using the share sheet. It does mean you have to exit the app and go to photos, but as you point out, it's the app maker's fault for not supporting the extremely privacy friendly `UIImagePickerController`.