How to Use Snapchat Lenses and Filters

Follow these steps to apply fun lenses and filters in Snapchat.

  1. Let the camera recognize your face

    Point the camera at your face so it can automatically detect it and apply lens effects.

  2. Tap a lens to apply it

    Tap any lens you like and it's applied to your face in real time.

  3. Tap the search icon to find more lenses

    Tap the magnifying glass icon next to the lens carousel to search a much wider variety of themed lenses.

  4. Why it's useful

    Instead of a plain selfie, you can add playful face effects or background filters to make your photos and videos more fun and expressive.

Turn an Everyday Selfie Into Something Fun

Lenses transform a basic selfie into something more expressive in seconds β€” animal ears, color effects, distortions, or entire background changes β€” without needing any editing skill.

New Lenses Drop Constantly

Because lenses are built and shared by both the platform and its community, there's always something new to try, tied to trends, holidays, or games, which keeps the feature fresh well beyond your first few uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an internet connection to use lenses?

Most popular lenses are stored on your device and work offline, but newly added lenses may need an internet connection the first time you use them to download.

Can I use a lens a friend created?

Yes β€” if someone shares a lens they made in Lens Studio with you, you can use the same lens by opening their shared link.