Recording a video on an iPhone 7 takes just a couple of taps in the Camera app, and the iPhone 7 can shoot sharp video at up to 4K resolution with optical image stabilization. This guide covers how to start and stop recording, the fastest ways to open the camera, how to choose resolution and frame rate, how to use slow motion and time-lapse, and tips for better-looking videos. Most steps also apply to newer iPhones.
Quick Answer
Open the Camera app, swipe the mode selector to VIDEO, and tap the red Record button. Tap it again to stop. Your video is saved to the Photos app.
Step-by-Step: Record a Video
- Open the Camera app.
- Swipe left or right on the viewfinder, or on the mode names above the shutter button, until VIDEO is highlighted in yellow.
- Point the camera at your subject. Tap the screen to focus on a specific area.
- Tap the red Record button. A timer at the top shows the recording length.
- Tap the Record button again to stop.
- Tap the thumbnail in the corner to watch your video, or open the Photos app.
Tip: while recording, tap the white shutter button that appears to take a still photo without stopping the video. You can also press a volume button to start and stop recording.
Fastest Ways to Open the Camera
- Lock Screen: swipe left on the Lock Screen.
- Control Center: swipe up from the bottom of the screen and tap the camera icon.
- Siri: say "Hey Siri, take a video."
- 3D Touch: press firmly on the Camera icon on the Home Screen and choose Record Video.
Choose Resolution and Frame Rate
- Go to Settings > Camera > Record Video.
- Choose an option. On iPhone 7, these include:
- 720p HD at 30 fps: smallest files.
- 1080p HD at 30 fps: good default for sharing.
- 1080p HD at 60 fps: smoother motion, good for sports.
- 4K at 30 fps: sharpest detail, largest files.
Approximate storage per minute is shown on that screen. 4K video uses several times more space than 1080p, so check your free storage in Settings > General > iPhone Storage before long recordings.
Under Settings > Camera > Formats, High Efficiency saves space using HEVC, while Most Compatible uses H.264, which is easier to play on older computers.
Slow Motion and Time-Lapse
- SLO-MO: swipe to SLO-MO and record. You can choose 120 or 240 fps in Settings > Camera > Record Slo-mo. In Photos, tap Edit to set where the slow motion starts and ends.
- TIME-LAPSE: swipe to TIME-LAPSE and record. The iPhone captures frames at intervals and creates a sped-up video, great for sunsets or traffic. Keep the phone steady.
Tips for Better Videos
- Hold the phone horizontally for videos you will watch on TVs, computers, or YouTube.
- Lock focus and exposure: touch and hold on the screen until AE/AF LOCK appears. Drag the sun icon up or down to adjust brightness.
- Zoom smoothly: pinch to zoom, but remember the iPhone 7 has one rear camera, so zoom is digital and reduces quality.
- Use light: record in good lighting or turn on the flashlight with the flash button for close-ups.
- Keep it steady: use both hands, lean on something, or use a tripod.
- Clean the lens with a soft cloth before recording.
Edit, Trim, and Share
- Open the video in Photos and tap Edit.
- Drag the ends of the timeline to trim the start and end.
- Tap Done, then choose Save Video or Save Video as New Clip.
- Tap the Share button to send it via Messages, Mail, AirDrop, or social apps.
Troubleshooting
Recording stops on its own
Your storage may be full. Free up space in Settings > General > iPhone Storage or turn on iCloud Photos with Optimize iPhone Storage.
No sound in videos
Check that you are not covering the microphones, remove your case to test, and make sure your iPhone is not connected to Bluetooth headphones that might be capturing audio.
Video looks blurry
Clean the lens, tap to focus, and avoid digital zoom. Check that Record Video is not set to 720p.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can an iPhone 7 record video?
There is no fixed time limit. Recording length depends on free storage and battery.
Can the iPhone 7 record in 4K?
Yes, at 30 frames per second.
Can I use QuickTake on iPhone 7?
No. QuickTake (holding the shutter in Photo mode to record) requires iPhone XS/XR or later. On iPhone 7, switch to VIDEO mode.
Where are my videos saved?
In the Photos app, under Library and in the Videos media type album.
Summary
- Open Camera and swipe to VIDEO.
- Tap the red Record button to start and stop.
- Choose resolution in Settings > Camera > Record Video.
- Use SLO-MO and TIME-LAPSE for special effects, and trim videos in Photos.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.