How to Use QuickTake Zoom on iOS 15

Apple’s QuickTake feature in iOS 15 allows users to capture spontaneous videos directly from the standard Photo mode without switching camera settings. Integrated directly into this feature is a fluid, one-handed zoom gesture that lets you smoothly zoom in and out while actively recording video, ensuring you never miss a moment.

How QuickTake Zoom Works

To operate the QuickTake zoom gesture in iOS 15, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Camera App: Launch the native Camera app and ensure it is in standard Photo mode.
  2. Initiate QuickTake Recording: Press and hold the circular Shutter button. The button will turn red, indicating that video recording has begun.
  3. Zoom In: While continuing to hold your finger down on the screen, drag your finger upward toward the center of the display (away from the shutter button). As your finger moves up, the camera smoothly zooms in.
  4. Zoom Out: Drag your finger back downward toward the original shutter position to zoom out.
  5. End Recording: Lift your finger off the screen to stop recording and automatically save the video to your Photos library.

Zooming While Locked in QuickTake Mode

If you need to record for an extended duration and want hands-free recording with zoom controls:

  1. Press and hold the shutter button in Photo mode to begin recording.
  2. Drag your finger to the right toward the padlock icon to lock the camera into hands-free video recording.
  3. Once locked, use standard camera gestures to control your zoom: pinch the screen with two fingers, tap the preset optical zoom buttons (such as 0.5x, 1x, 2x, or 3x depending on your iPhone model), or drag the zoom dial for precise magnification.
  4. Tap the red record button to complete the capture.