VSCO Launches ‘Capture’: Analog Filters Bring Film-Like Aesthetic to Mobile Photography

VSCO Launches “Capture” App, Revitalizing Mobile Photography with Advanced Controls

San Francisco, CA – July 10, 2025 – VSCO, a leader in mobile photography, has officially launched its new app, “VSCO Capture,” aiming to bring a more refined and customizable shooting experience to iOS users. The application introduces a suite of advanced camera controls, allowing photographers to move beyond simple point-and-shoot, offering tools typically found in more professional camera bodies.

capture‘s core functionality centers on providing granular control over essential photographic elements directly within the app. Users can now manually adjust exposure, focus, white balance, and ISO, empowering them to exert greater artistic intent from the moment of capture. This level of control is a meaningful departure for many mobile users, who have grown accustomed to automated camera settings.

A standout feature is Capture’s array of film-inspired presets, which can be applied both before and after taking a photo. These presets, a hallmark of the VSCO brand, are designed to emulate the look and feel of classic film stocks, adding a vintage aesthetic and a distinct creative signature to digital images. The app also supports RAW capture, a vital feature for photographers who wish to retain maximum image data for post-processing.

VSCO Capture offers flexibility in how users manage their work. images can be saved directly to the device’s camera roll for immediate sharing or organized within the app’s dedicated gallery. From this gallery, photos can be seamlessly transferred to the main VSCO app for further editing or shared across other platforms.

In a move that defies current app monetization trends, VSCO Capture is surprisingly free to use, with all its tools and presets fully accessible without a subscription. While a VSCO account is required to begin, the company has opted to provide its advanced features without an immediate paywall. This approach underscores VSCO’s commitment to fostering a creative community by making powerful tools widely available.

To accompany the launch, VSCO released a tutorial featuring photographer Zach Hodges, demonstrating the app’s capabilities and offering insights into achieving professional results with mobile photography. This educational content highlights VSCO’s dedication to not only providing tools but also empowering users to master them.

The introduction of VSCO Capture marks a pivotal moment for mobile photography, bridging the gap between casual smartphone snapshots and more purposeful, artistic image-making. By offering advanced controls and its signature film emulations in a free package, VSCO is setting a new standard for what users can expect from their mobile cameras in 2025 and beyond. This app is a testament to the evolving power and creative potential of the smartphone as a primary photographic tool.

What are the key aesthetic qualities that drive the current preference for film-like photography?

VSCO Launches ‘Capture’: Analog Filters Bring Film-Like Aesthetic too mobile Photography

Understanding the ‘Capture’ Update & VSCO’s Evolution

VSCO has long been a favorite among mobile photographers seeking a refined, film-inspired aesthetic. The recent launch of ‘Capture’ isn’t a radical departure, but a focused evolution, doubling down on what VSCO does best: delivering authentic, analog-feeling filters and editing tools.As someone who’s used VSCO alongside Snapseed for years – a common workflow for serious mobile editing – I’ve been closely following these developments. The core appeal remains the same: achieving that coveted film look directly on your smartphone.

What is VSCO ‘Capture’ and What Does it Offer?

‘Capture’ isn’t a standalone app, but a significant update to the existing VSCO platform. It centers around a new suite of filters designed to emulate specific film stocks and photographic processes.Here’s a breakdown of key features:

Film-Inspired Presets: The heart of ‘capture’ lies in its meticulously crafted presets. These aren’t just simple color adjustments; they aim to replicate the grain, color response, and overall character of classic films. expect options reminiscent of kodak Portra, Fuji Pro 400H, and Ilford HP5.

Dynamic Range Control: ‘Capture’ introduces more granular control over dynamic range,allowing users to fine-tune highlights and shadows for a more nuanced look. This is crucial for achieving that authentic film aesthetic, where highlights frequently enough roll off gently.

Grain Simulation: Realistic film grain is a hallmark of analog photography. VSCO’s grain tools have always been strong, and ‘Capture’ refines them further, offering adjustable size, intensity, and color.

Color Grading tools: Beyond presets,’Capture’ provides advanced color grading tools,allowing for precise adjustments to hue,saturation,and luminance. This empowers users to create truly unique looks.

Improved Editing Workflow: VSCO has streamlined its editing interface, making it easier to navigate and apply adjustments.

Why the Focus on Analog Aesthetics?

The enduring appeal of film photography in the digital age is undeniable. There’s a certain je ne sais quoi about film – a warmth, texture, and imperfection – that many find lacking in digital images. VSCO has consistently tapped into this desire, offering tools to recreate that look.

Several factors contribute to this trend:

Nostalgia: A longing for a simpler, more tactile photographic experience.

Aesthetic Preference: many find the colors and textures of film more pleasing and visually interesting. Styles like Kinfolk’s Nordic aesthetic and Cereal’s low-saturation look are heavily influenced by film.

authenticity: In a world of hyper-realistic digital images, film offers a sense of authenticity and imperfection.

Creative Expression: Film forces photographers to be more deliberate and thoughtful in their approach.

Benefits of Using VSCO ‘Capture’ for Mobile Photography

Using VSCO ‘Capture’ offers several advantages for mobile photographers:

Professional-Looking Results: Achieve a polished, film-inspired aesthetic without needing expensive equipment or extensive editing knowledge.

Time Savings: Presets provide a quick starting point for editing, saving valuable time.

Creative Control: Advanced tools allow for fine-tuning and customization, ensuring your images reflect your unique vision.

consistency: Presets help maintain a consistent look and feel across your entire portfolio.

Accessibility: bring the beauty of analog photography to your smartphone, anytime, anywhere.

Practical Tips for Utilizing VSCO ‘Capture’ Filters

Here are some tips to get the most out of the new ‘Capture’ features:

1. Start with the Right Preset: Choose a preset that complements the subject matter and lighting conditions.
2. Subtle Adjustments: Avoid overdoing it. The goal is to enhance, not drastically alter, the image.
3. Experiment with Grain: Add grain subtly to create texture and depth.

4.