VSCO is one of our favorite apps for capturing and editing iPhone photos and videos. It offers a wide range of filters and post-shoot editing tools that deliver fast, cinematic results. When you combine the simplicity of VSCO with the portability of the iPhone, it becomes the perfect creative setup, especially when paired with SANDMARC gear. In this guide, we’ll share our top tips and tricks for getting the most out of VSCO.

VSCO Capture is VSCO’s new standalone camera app that lets you apply filters, film effects, and manual controls before taking a photo or video. Instead of guessing how your edit will look later, Capture allows you to preview presets, adjust exposure, and fine-tune details in real time. You can shoot in RAW for maximum flexibility or save both filtered and unfiltered versions for post-editing. The app is ideal for creators who want more control at the moment of capture, especially when shooting with external lenses like SANDMARC’s Wide or Telephoto options.

VSCO Editor, on the other hand, is the companion app designed for post-shoot editing and color grading. It offers VSCO’s full suite of presets, filters, and adjustment tools for refining tone, lighting, and mood after shooting.

While VSCO allows editing of longer clips, each scene in its Montage feature is limited to one minute. For more advanced or extended video editing, we recommend using the Blackmagic Camera app.

VSCO allows you to get creative by making your own presets. Custom presets not only streamline your workflow but also help you maintain a consistent visual identity across all your content, one that’s uniquely yours. Add character to your shots using the Grain tool, it’s a simple way to achieve that timeless, film-inspired texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with Shadows Tint and Highlights. Tint to develop unique color palettes that reflect your personal style or project mood. Finally, save time and ensure visual consistency by stacking edits, copy and paste your settings across multiple photos or videos to tie your entire series together seamlessly.

Avoid over-editing your photos or videos with too many filters, as it can distort natural tones and details. Be careful not to crush the blacks or blow out the highlights, which can result in lost texture and depth. Lastly and most importantly, maintain consistency across your photo series or video sequence to ensure a professional and unified aesthetic.

VSCO is the perfect option for anyone looking to take their iPhone editing skills to the next level. Its presets offer flexibility and plenty of room for creativity, making it easy to craft a style that feels unique. And when paired with SANDMARC lenses, filters, and lighting gear, your visuals go from simple edits to professional-grade storytelling.