VSCO’s film-inspired filters and powerful editing tools established it as one of the first serious mobile photo and video apps. Here’s how to make the most of it.

VSCO’s AI Lab automates the most complex parts of editing. The Prompt tool lets you edit using plain language like “add warmth” or “soften shadows” (no sliders required). Remove erases distracting objects with a tap or brush stroke; Upscale boosts resolution for cropping and printing; Denoise cleans up grain; Dehaze restores contrast and colour in flat, overcast images; and Hairstyle removes flyaways.

Once you’ve dialled in your edits, save them as a Recipe to quickly apply to future images. To save, tap the back-arrow circle at the bottom of the editing screen, then add your edits as a Recipe.

The app’s Presets – modelled after classic film stocks such as Kodachrome – are what put VSCO on the map. Overwhelmed by the options? In the Presets panel, swipe to For This Photo and the app will analyse your image’s dominant colours and suggest six ideal matches. Compare Presets side by side by tapping the Preset icon and selecting different view options.

The Spaces tab is where VSCO’s community lives. Browse categories such as Travel, Fashion and Nature to share photos and connect with like-minded photographers. You can also collaborate on group projects, start your own Space and build a mood board or blog.

The Editing panel covers the essentials – Saturation, Contrast, White Balance – plus a few standout tools for portraits. Skin Tone corrects unwanted redness or green tones on your subject’s face without touching the rest of the image. On the Effects tab, Bloom adds a dreamy haze, while Halation brings a warm, analogue-style glow.