How can one create a file shortcut inside the Android file system?
What you are looking for is called symbolic linking

ln -s command is your friend. Now depending on your device and the file manager you use, this process can differ. I don't think you'll need root for this, but if your device doesn't come with symbolic linking by default, you'll need root to add this. 

And like the other comment said, it's better to use a Gallery app for photos rather than doing this.