Hi there healthyoptions,
That is a strange thing to occur, and we'd like to rule out some possible causes, along with confirming more details to better understand what's happening:
- Did this occur after updating to iOS 16.0, or did it start to occur right after a different iOS 16 version was installed?
- What occurs if you test a different wallpaper, like one of the stock ones that's included in iOS 16?
- Does this occur after performing a specific action, using a certain app, etc.?
- Sometimes unexpected behavior can be resolved with a restart: Restart your iPhone
- You mentioned having iOS 16 installed, but the latest for your model is iOS 16.1.2. You can verify this within Settings > General > About. In case you needed it, this link shows how to first back up, then Update your iPhone or iPad.
Cheers!