How to Shoot Slow-Motion Video on Your Phone

Tap your device to see how it is done.

iPhone

In the Camera app, swipe the bottom menu to 'Slo-mo' and tap the shutter button -- the video is automatically captured to play back in slow motion.

Android

In the Camera app, select 'Slow motion' mode, which records at a higher frame rate so the footage plays back slower afterward.

Adjust which section plays slowly

On many phones, the editing screen after recording lets you choose exactly which portion of the clip plays in slow motion, instead of slowing down the whole video.

Why it is useful

It lets you dramatically capture a splash of water or a fast-moving moment, with no special equipment needed beyond your phone.

Catching What the Eye Usually Misses

A splash of water or a sudden, quick movement usually passes by in an instant. Slow-motion mode captures those moments in a way that reveals detail you would never notice in real time.

Good Lighting Makes a Real Difference

Because it records far more frames per second than standard video, slow motion needs more light to keep each frame sharp -- in dim settings, footage often comes out noticeably grainier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do slow-motion videos take up more storage space?

Yes -- because they capture far more frames per second than standard video, slow-motion clips take up noticeably more storage space for the same length of footage.

Does slow motion work well in low light?

It works best in well-lit conditions. Because slow motion needs a higher frame rate, footage shot in dim environments often comes out grainier than normal video.