How to Start Recording in Seconds: Quick Start, the Volume Button and the Countdown

The problem

The moments dual-camera video is best at (a reaction, an aside, a view that lasts ten seconds) are gone by the time you’ve opened an app, chosen a layout and found record. And once you’re recording, reaching for the screen shakes the shot and puts your finger in the frame.

Ways to start fast

• Quick Start cards on Home. Tap one and the camera opens already configured: Vlog (rear main, front bubble), Reaction (you up front), Interview (two-up split), Selfie Story (front and back stacked), Cinematic 4K, Macro Close-Up, Cutout Overlay, Side by Side and Demo Mode. Home also shows your last-used setup.
• The Home Screen quick action. Long-press the app icon for a shortcut straight into recording.
• Your own presets. Save a setup once and start it the same way. See presets.

Hands-free control

• Countdown: off, 3, 5 or 10 seconds before recording starts, so you can step back and get into position.
• Volume button: start and stop with a physical button instead of tapping the screen.
• Clear screen: while recording, hide every control except the record button.

A routine

1. Tap a Quick Start card.
2. Set a 5-second countdown.
3. Prop the phone or hold it ready.
4. Start with the volume button.
5. Stop the same way.

Notes

• Pro setups on a free plan open as the standard version rather than failing. For example, Cutout Overlay becomes a standard PiP.
• Check the preview once before the first take of a session.

FAQ

What Quick Start setups are there? Vlog, Reaction, Interview, Selfie Story, Cinematic 4K, Macro Close-Up, Cutout Overlay, Side by Side and Demo Mode.

Can I start with a volume button? Yes. You can start and stop recording with a volume button.

What are the countdown options? Off, 3, 5 or 10 seconds.

Are all Quick Starts free? The Cutout Overlay and Demo Mode setups need Pro. Free users get the standard version instead.