The Apple Watch’s ability to act as a remote control for your phone’s camera was mentioned in your ad, so it’s been around for a while, but I only used it once or twice to take group photos. Twitter user @PeterSciretta, however, indicated that you can also use it as a vlog feature.
Doing this is simple: on your watch, access the Camera Remote application. This will open the camera application on your iPhone and you can switch to video mode, set it up and record. You don’t even need to attach your watch to the phone like it does in the tweet; the remote camera will function fully while the watch is on the wrist.
I’ve recorded videos on my phone before and it was often an exercise in frustration trying to get the frame right. There were many runs back and forth, recording short clips to make sure the focus and frame were correct. I could definitely have avoided the hassle if I had remembered that my watch could do that, although I think I would have taken fewer steps. It is a sacrifice that I will have to make.
Android users don’t have to feel left out either, as Wear OS devices can also act as a camera viewfinder when connected to Pixel phones. The Apple Watch trick will also work with the popular FiLMiC Pro video camera app, as Jeff mentions in his tweet. That way, you can get all the benefits that the third-party app offers, in addition to remote viewing on your watch.
Of course, if you are planning to create a new vlogging setup, this is probably not the best way to go, especially if you don’t already have an Apple Watch. For less than the price of the cheapest Apple watch (the Series 3), you can purchase Apple’s Lightning to HDMI adapter (which also allows you to turn on your phone so you don’t run out of battery) and a small camera monitor . Or you can simply place your phone in front of a mirror. But if you already have an Apple Watch and want to film yourself using your iPhone, this tip can make it easier.