Skip to main content

Capturing Video with a DSLR Camera

How to use a DSLR camera to capture high-quality videos with Snappic.

Rayman avatar
Written by Rayman
Updated over 2 months ago

Snappic now supports video capture using DSLR cameras, enabling you to record high-quality footage for your VideoFX templates and photo booth experiences.


Table Of Contents

  • DSLR Video Recording Support

  • Camera Mode Requirements

  • Recommended Recording Resolution

  • Slow Motion Settings and Memory Card Tips


Important Notes

  • Your DSLR must support video recording via tethered connection for Snappic to capture video.

  • If unsupported, Snappic will automatically use your device’s built-in camera.

  • Set your DSLR to video mode before capturing. (preferred method)

  • Use an optimal resolution (not higher than your VideoFX template).

  • For models that support recording video from a photo mode, note that some of the cameras will zoom in when recording a video, as they don't have a setting that Canon offers in their end cameras.


DSLR Video Recording Support

While most DSLR cameras can record video, not all can do so through a tethered connection (USB or compatible cable).

  • Ensure your camera supports video over tether — check your model’s manual or manufacturer's website.

  • If not supported, Snappic will revert to the iPad or iPhone built-in camera for video capture.

For setup instructions on connecting your DSLR to Snappic, refer to the related DSLR Connection Guide.


Camera Mode Requirements

Set your DSLR to Video Mode when capturing footage.

  • Many modern DSLR models can capture both photos and videos from a Photo mode.

  • If your camera supports this hybrid mode, no switching is required between captures.

    • Important to note is that when in Photo mode, APS-C (cropped sensors) will crop a video recording, while full-frame cameras have settings to mitigate this.

    • Video Recording from photo mode is usually limited to 60fps

  • On most models, the mode can be adjusted using the dial on the camera body.


Recommended Recording Resolution

While DSLRs often support 4K or even 8K recording, this is unnecessary for Snappic’s VideoFX workflows.

  • Snappic’s VideoFX templates are optimised for:

    • 1280x1280 (Square)

    • 1080x1920 (Portrait)

  • Recording in extremely high resolutions will only slow down transfer and rendering times with little visible improvement.

Best Practice:

Set your DSLR to match the resolution of your VideoFX template for optimal performance and speed.

Refer to your camera’s manual to adjust the recording resolution setting.


Slow Motion Settings and Memory Card Tips

Slow Motion Speed Multiplier

Some cameras—especially Canon models—may not record slow motion properly by default.

Memory Card Requirements

Recording slow-motion footage at high frame rates requires a fast memory card.

  • Choose a card with a high write speed to ensure smooth recording.

  • Check your camera manufacturer’s recommended specifications for high-speed video capture.

Here is a list of recommended SD card speeds for recording slow-motion video with Canon cameras.

💡 Tip: Using slower cards may cause frame drops or recording errors during slow-motion sessions.


Need Help? Contact Support

Chat directly from your dashboard for live support

Did this answer your question?