How to Capture Photos with Animoji Mask in iOS 12

iOS 12 allows users with TrueDepth camera-equipped iPhones to overlay real-time Animoji and Memoji masks onto their faces to capture still photos. This feature is integrated directly into the Messages app camera rather than the standard Camera app. This guide walks through the exact steps required to select your character, frame your shot, and save or send a photo with an Animoji mask.

Device Requirements

To use Animoji overlays, you must have an iPhone equipped with a TrueDepth front camera running iOS 12. Compatible devices include the iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.

Steps to Take a Photo with an Animoji Mask

  1. Open Messages: Launch the Messages app on your iPhone and tap into an existing conversation or start a new message thread.
  2. Launch the Messages Camera: Tap the Camera icon located to the left of the iMessage text input field.
  3. Switch to Front Camera: Ensure the camera is set to the front-facing selfie camera. If it is facing outward, tap the flip-camera icon in the bottom-right corner.
  4. Open Effects: Tap the star-shaped Effects icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
  5. Select Animoji: Tap the Animoji icon (represented by a monkey) from the effects toolbar.
  6. Choose a Character: Swipe through the carousel of Animoji and Memoji characters and tap the one you want to use. The character will instantly track your facial expressions and map over your head.
  7. Close the Tray: Tap the X button on the Animoji drawer to minimize the selection tray while keeping the mask active on your face.
  8. Capture the Photo: Pose and tap the round white Shutter button to take your photo.
  9. Save or Send:
    • To send the photo in the conversation, tap the blue Send arrow in the bottom-right corner.
    • To save the photo to your Photos app without sending it, tap Done in the top-right corner to place it into the message bubble, then tap and hold the image preview and select Save.