In iOS 26, the Camera app controls have been tucked away, making the display cleaner but making it more challenging to find the camera mode (like selfie, video, or portrait) you want. We all know that taking the perfect photo can require lightning reflexes, so here's how to launch into your camera mode of choice right from your Home Screen, bypassing your in-app controls altogether.
Why You'll Love This Tip
- Open your Camera in the exact mode you're looking for, whether Selfie, Video, or Portrait.
- Save time by not swiping between modes.
- Avoid confusion with the iOS 26 Camera layout.
How to Open Your Camera App in the Perfect Mode Right from Your Home Screen
System Requirements
This tip was performed on an iPhone 16 running iOS 26 (available as a beta now and to be shipped universally in September 2025). This tip works on earlier OS versions as well. Find out how to update to the latest version of iOS.
Did you know you can open your Camera app to a specific mode right from your Home Screen? No need to swipe to find the right one. All you have to do is long press on your Camera icon and then select either Selfie, Video, Portrait, or Portrait Selfie.
Note: This only works from your Home Screen, not from a Lock Screen shortcut. For more secret time-saving tricks, check out our free Tip of the Day newsletter.
- On your Home Screen, long press on your Camera app icon.
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- Tap Selfie, Video, Portrait, or Portrait Selfie.
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- Your Camera app will open in your selected mode, ready to shoot. Tap the capture/record icon and you're set!
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Say cheese! Your photos will capture as usual, and if you want to switch modes, you can do it in the now open Camera app.
