Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Custom Snapchat Lenses

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Custom Snapchat Lenses

Creating custom filters, known as Lenses, on Snapchat used to require a heavier desktop approach with Lens Studio, which could be daunting for newcomers. However, with the launch of the Lens Studio mobile app, Snapchat makes it considerably easier for users to tap into their creativity right from their smartphones.

Availability of Lens Studio by Snap

Exciting news for iOS users! The Lens Studio mobile app is currently available only for iOS devices, which means you’ll need to snag it from the App Store since it exists as its own separate app outside of Snapchat.

Once downloaded, simply log in using your Snapchat credentials to access the exciting features that await!

Logging in with Snapchat account in Lens Studio app.

Modifying Snapchat Lens Templates

One of the quickest ways to get started with creating custom Lenses is by modifying existing templates available directly within the app. As you navigate the main screen, you’ll find various templates that catch your eye. Just tap on one to begin your creative journey!

Snapchat Lens templates available in Lens Studio app.

Utilize the menu at the bottom to incorporate Text, Filters, or tweak parameters like Contrast, Saturation, and Vibrance. If you see Face Gen, know it’s your pathway to utilizing AI for enhancing facial effects. Want to add even more flair? Hit the + button in the bottom left to include additional effects!

Editing existing Snapchat template in Studio Lens app.

Creating a Custom Snapchat Lens

If starting fresh sounds more appealing, you can also create a Lens from ground zero! In the Lens Studio app, tap the + button at the bottom of your screen.

Tapping on
Snapchat Lens Studio Adding Effects Page

You will then be guided to a screen where you can select various effects to use:

  • Appearance – Modify features like Eye and Lip Color for personalized effects.
  • Filter – Choose from an array of filters to enhance your Lens.
  • Adjust – Tweak the camera settings including Saturation and Exposure for refined visuals.
  • Text – Add customized text overlays to your Lens.
  • Face Cutouts – Craft unique expressions by cutting out parts of your face like Eyes or Nose.
  • Background – Personalize your backdrop from your gallery photos or create an AI-generated background using your creative prompts.
  • Morph – Playfully distort facial features for whimsical results.
  • Q&A – Engage users by including a Question and Answer feature in your Lens.
  • Bitmoji – Bring your Bitmoji into the mix if you’ve created one already.
  • Head Gen – Leverage AI to design head filters, with potential wait times of up to 20 minutes.
  • Body Gen – Generate full-body Lenses.
  • Style Gen – Experiment with various artistic styles using filters.
  • Face Gen – Utilize AI to create unique face effects from your uploaded images, though approval may take a few hours.

Once you’ve selected your preferred effects, customize them as per your vision. In my case, I harnessed the Background AI generation tool for an engaging backdrop.

Custom lens view in Lens Studio app.

Additionally, I integrated the Face Cutouts tool to bring my own eyes into the design. You can continue to layer effects seamlessly by hitting the + button.

Check out this Lens I created using the Face Gen tool; while it didn’t perfectly follow my prompt, I was excited by the outcome.

Snapchat Lens created with Face Gen tool in Lens Studio app.

Once satisfied with your creation, simply press Next.

Pressing Next on new Lens creation screen in Lens Studio app.

You will need to name your Lens, set a preview, and choose an icon before selecting Publish Lens.

Publishing newly created Lens in Lens Studio.

Your Lens will go for approval by Snapchat—this could take a few minutes, giving you time to test out the app’s tools further.

Keep an eye on your email for a notification containing a link to your Lens upon approval. Simply click on it to open your Lens in the Snapchat app, adding it to your available filters.

Email alerting you that Lens is now live on Snapchat with link.

Just a note: while the Lenses you create on the mobile app are fantastic for personal fun, they may not feature the advanced capabilities found in the Lens Studio desktop version.

If you are a frequent user of Snapchat, enhance your skills by learning how to effortlessly find friends on Snapchat, or check out tips on utilizing Snapchat location to discover nearby stories!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Lens Studio mobile app available for Android users?

No, currently the Lens Studio mobile app is only available for iOS devices via the App Store.

2. How long does it take for a Lens to be approved by Snapchat?

The approval process typically takes a few minutes; however, it can sometimes take longer depending on Snapchat’s review queue.

3. Can I use existing images in my custom Lens?

Yes, you can import images from your gallery or use the app’s AI feature to create custom backgrounds for your Lens.

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