How to use the new cameras feature in VideoScribe for Browser

You asked and we delivered... a new cameras feature is now available in VideoScribe for browser!

And trust us, we're just as excited as you are! But if you've never used a camera in animation before, you may be wondering what it is and more importantly, how it can help you to create awesome animated videos. Well in this blog, we're taking you through an in-depth guide to the new feature and exactly how to use it to propel your video content to the next level.

Before we dive in, be sure to log into your VideoScribe account or sign up for your free 7-day trial of VideoScribe so you can see the new camera feature in action! 👇

What is the cameras feature?

In a nutshell, cameras give you the ability to zoom in and out of elements on your canvas. We've also made the canvas 49x larger, giving you freedom to pan around and add even more elements to your video. Watch the GIF below to see how much more space you now have to play with👇.

The new cameras feature is super useful when it comes to animation because you can draw attention to a particular element to propel your storytelling and make your videos more dynamic. This is going to keep your audience more engaged and excited when watching your video.

We've also added a new video template to the library to help get you started with the new cameras feature. Check out this new template below 👇

What are the benefits of the cameras feature?

Being able to control the camera positions in animated videos is a particularly useful feature. We've highlighted a few of those key reasons below 👇

Visual storytelling

The cameras feature gives you the ability to direct the visual narrative of your videos. With the ability to strategically position and move the camera, you can accentuate vital elements, direct the viewer's focus, and create a captivating experience.

Professional video production

The camera adds a level of professionalism to your videos. It enables you to create smooth and polished camera movements which enhances the overall visual quality of your videos and elevates the viewer's perception of your content.

Visual variety and interest

The ability to control camera positions brings visual interest to your videos. You can experiment with different angles and perspectives to keep your audience engaged. Whether it's a close-up shot for emphasis, a wide-angle view for context, or a dynamic camera movement, the camera gives you the ability to keep your viewer engaged.

Creative freedom

Adding cameras gives you creative freedom to explore and experiment with different visual styles and techniques. You can push the boundaries, try unconventional camera movements, or create unique perspectives that align with your creative vision. This flexibility encourages innovation and enables you to differentiate your video content from others.

How do I use the cameras feature?

If you've never used a camera feature in animation before, we've got you covered! We've created a help article to help you get to grips with the new feature, or follow our simple steps below to get started👇

First step, add a new camera 

Select the ‘Camera’ button from the panel on the left of the editor to add a new camera to your canvas. You can drag the camera along the timeline and place it before the element you want to zoom in or out of.

Setting the camera view

Once you've added a new camera it can be repositioned and resized on the canvas. Simply click and drag the corners of the box to reposition the view of the new camera. 

💡 You can double-click on the camera in the timeline to see the view of that camera up close

And repeat these steps above until you've added all the cameras you'd like to your project.

Camera settings

When the camera is selected within the timeline, you can edit the camera settings in the panel on the right-hand side. Below is an overview of what those settings mean 👇

1. Set camera to fit current view - use this button to reposition the camera to your current view of the canvas. If the camera is already positioned to the current view, the button will be greyed out 
2. Width / Height - manually input the size (px) of the selected camera
3. Duration - set how long the camera movement will take
4. Pause - set how long to pause after the camera movement and before the next animation starts

Transform options:

1. Lock - lock the camera to the canvas so it cannot be moved
2. Pin - pin the camera to the canvas so it will be visible all the time. There is also a pin icon on the top toolbar to allow you to pin or unpin all of the cameras on the canvas

Learn more in our live webinar

We're hosting a live webinar on Tuesday, September 5th to help you get to grips with the new cameras feature. We'll give you a demo with tips and tricks on how to level up your videos and we'll answer your questions about the new feature live.

Click below to reserve your free spot at the session👇

And there you have it! Our in-depth guide to the new cameras feature in VideoScribe for browser. If you're as excited as we are, sign up for your free 7-day trial to try out the new feature for yourself, or sign into your VideoScribe account to start creating. Happy animating!