Video Recording Guide
What you'll learn: How to capture verified video with live embedded data.
Quick Start
- Long-press the shutter button to start recording
- The ring pulses red while recording
- Release or tap again to stop
- Video saves with embedded overlay throughout
Recording Methods
Long-Press Recording
Press and hold the shutter button. Recording starts immediately. Release to stop.
Best for: Quick clips, spontaneous documentation
Video Mode Toggle
- Swipe on the shutter button or tap mode selector
- Tap shutter to start recording
- Tap again to stop
Best for: Extended recordings, walkthroughs
Video Quality
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 1080p (Full HD) or 4K (Ultra HD) |
| Frame Rate | 24 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps |
| Codec | H.264 / HEVC |
| Storage | ~130 MB - 400 MB per minute |
Note: 4K, 60fps, and 30fps support varies by device capability. If the device heats up, Lens automatically prioritizes continuous recording over frame rate.
Controls: Use the separate resolution and frame rate selectors in the top control bar to configure your capture settings independently.
During Recording
What's Visible
- Red pulsing ring around shutter button
- Recording timer displaying elapsed time
- Live overlay updating with current data
What Updates
The overlay data refreshes in real-time during recording:
| Element | Update Frequency |
|---|---|
| Time | Every second |
| GPS | Every 5 seconds |
| Compass | Live |
| Weather | Static (captured at start) |
Content Credentials (C2PA)
When enabled in Settings, Lens signs every video.
- Signature: Embedded cryptographic manifest proving origin (device info, optionally location and creation time). Capture settings (ISO, aperture, exposure) are not included for video—only for photos.
- Master Copy: A specialized "Master Copy" is saved to
Files > On My iPhone > Lens > C2PA. - Verification: Use open standards tools (like
c2patool) to verify the.movor.mp4file.
Storage Considerations
Video requires significant storage:
| Recording Length | Approximate Size |
|---|---|
| 1 minute | 130 MB |
| 5 minutes | 650 MB |
| 10 minutes | 1.3 GB |
| 30 minutes | 3.9 GB |
Storage Warning
Lens displays a warning when storage runs low. Free up space before long recordings.
Audio
Microphone Permission
Required for recording video with audio. Grant when prompted, or:
- Settings (iOS) → Privacy & Security → Microphone
- Enable Lens
Mute Toggle
Lens features a dedicated Mute Button in the top controls bar when in Video mode.
- Tap the Microphone icon to toggle audio recording on/off.
- Icon with slash indicates audio is muted.
- This setting is remembered between sessions for safety.
Without Audio
If the Mute button is active or microphone access is denied, video records without audio. Overlay data is still embedded.
Best Practices
For Site Walkthroughs
- Record in landscape for wider field of view
- Move slowly and steadily
- Narrate observations (audio captures)
- Pause at key points for clear overlay visibility
For Progress Documentation
- Same framing at regular intervals
- Note date verbally for quick reference
- Keep clips under 5 minutes for easier review
Troubleshooting
Recording Stops Unexpectedly
Cause: Storage full
Fix: Free up device storage before recording
No Audio in Recording
Cause: Microphone permission denied
Fix: iOS Settings → Privacy → Microphone → enable Lens
Video Appears Choppy
Cause: Device thermal throttling or low battery
Fix:
- Close background apps, ensure adequate charge
- Lens will automatically reduce frame rate to 30fps if thermal warnings occur