Snapchat has become much more than just a platform for sending disappearing photos and videos to friends. With the introduction of Snapchat Lenses, the app has taken augmented reality (AR) to a whole new level. Whether you want to turn yourself into a cute puppy or a dancing hotdog, Snapchat Lenses allows you to express yourself in creative and entertaining ways. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through how to use Snapchat Lenses, so you can start having fun with AR filters and wow your friends.
What Are Snapchat Lenses?
Before we dive into the details of using Snapchat Lenses, let’s clarify what they are. Snapchat Lenses, also known as filters, are AR effects that overlay your selfies or the world around you in real-time. They can add masks, animations, and special effects to your photos and videos, making your snaps more engaging and entertaining. Lenses are constantly updated with new designs, so there’s always something fresh to explore.
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter—how to use Snapchat Lenses effectively.
How to Use Snapchat Lenses
1. Open Snapchat
First, make sure you have the Snapchat app installed on your smartphone, and that you’re logged in to your account. If you don’t have the app, you can download it from your device’s app store.
2. Access the Camera
Once you’re in the app, tap on the camera icon in the bottom-center of the screen. This will open the Snapchat camera, allowing you to take photos and record videos.
3. Activate Lenses
To access Snapchat Lenses, you need to enable the front-facing camera. You can do this by tapping the camera icon in the top-right corner of the screen (it looks like a rotating arrow).
4. Find the Lens Carousel
Now, you should see a row of icons along the bottom of the camera screen. These are your Lenses! Swipe left or right to browse through them.
5. Select a Lens
Scroll through the Lens carousel until you find a Lens that catches your eye. When you select a Lens, a preview will appear on your screen. Some Lenses require specific actions, like raising your eyebrows or opening your mouth, so follow the on-screen instructions if prompted.
6. Capture Your Snap
Once you’ve chosen a Lens and are happy with how it looks, tap the circular shutter button at the bottom of the screen to take a photo. If you want to record a video with the Lens, press and hold the shutter button.
7. Edit and Share
After capturing your snap, you can use Snapchat’s editing tools to add captions, drawings, and stickers. When you’re ready, tap the blue “Send” button to share your snap with friends or add it to your story.
8. Save Your Snap
If you want to save your snap to your device’s camera roll, tap the download icon (a downward-facing arrow) before sending it. This way, you’ll have a copy of your snap to share outside of Snapchat.
9. Exploring World Lenses
Snapchat Lenses aren’t limited to just selfies. World Lenses allow you to augment the environment around you. To access World Lenses, tap the rear-facing camera icon located in the top-right corner of the camera screen. From there, you can choose from various effects to enhance your surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use Snapchat Lenses on both iOS and Android devices?
Yes, Snapchat Lenses are available on both iOS and Android devices. You can download the Snapchat app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Q2: Do I need a front-facing camera to use Snapchat Lenses?
Yes, Snapchat Lenses are primarily designed for the front-facing camera. While some Lenses may work with the rear-facing camera (like World Lenses), most of the fun and interactive Lenses are optimized for selfies.
Q3: Are Snapchat Lenses free to use?
Yes, the vast majority of Snapchat Lenses are free to use. Snapchat occasionally offers sponsored or premium Lenses for special promotions, but you can enjoy a wide range of creative Lenses without any cost.
Q4: How often are new Snapchat Lenses added?
Snapchat frequently updates its Lenses collection with new designs and effects. New Lenses are added regularly, so you’ll always have fresh options to choose from.
Q5: Can I create my own Snapchat Lens?
Yes, Snapchat offers a Lens Studio tool that allows users to create their own custom Lenses. If you’re interested in getting more creative and designing your own AR experiences, you can explore this feature.
Tips for Using Snapchat Lenses Like a Pro
- Experiment with Different Lenses: Don’t be afraid to try out various Lenses to discover your favorites. Snapchat frequently introduces seasonal and event-specific Lenses, so keep an eye out for those too.
- Use Filters to Enhance Your Snaps: In addition to Lenses, Snapchat offers a variety of filters to adjust the lighting and color of your snaps. These filters can help you achieve the perfect look.
- Share with Friends: Snapchat is all about sharing moments with friends. Send your snaps directly to friends or add them to your story for all your followers to see.
- Stay Updated: Snapchat is continually evolving, so make sure to keep your app up to date to access the latest features and Lenses.
Conclusion
Snapchat Lenses add a playful and creative dimension to your snaps, allowing you to express yourself in fun and imaginative ways. Now that you know how to use Snapchat Lenses, you can embark on your AR adventure and delight your friends with captivating and entertaining snaps. Don’t forget to explore new Lenses regularly and share your favorite moments with your Snapchat community. Enjoy the world of augmented reality right at your fingertips!
