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SnapchatJanuary 10, 2026· 2 min read

How to Import Videos or Images on Snapchat (iOS) and Make Them Appear as Taken Now

Learn how to import videos and images to Snapchat on iOS and make them appear as freshly taken with this simple trick.

Want to upload a video or image to Snapchat and make it look like it was just taken? Snapchat usually tags imported media with "from Camera Roll," but there’s a trick for iOS users that makes it appear as if it’s captured in real-time. Follow these steps to make your imported media look fresh!

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing Media on Snapchat (iOS)

  1. Go to the Video Section: Open the Snapchat app and go to the video section where you can import media from your gallery. Instead of taking a new photo or video, select something from your existing files.
  2. Import from Gallery: Swipe up to access your Camera Roll and select the video or image you want to upload from your gallery.
  3. Swipe Up to Exit Snapchat: After selecting the media, don’t send it yet! Swipe up and exit the Snapchat app completely.
  4. Reopen Snapchat: Reopen Snapchat. When you return, your selected media will still be there, and Snapchat won’t recognize it as from your Camera Roll.
  5. Preview and Send: Click on the preview of the video or image and send it like you normally would. The media will now look like it was freshly taken!

Why This Trick Works

Exiting and reopening Snapchat refreshes its memory, so the app forgets that the media came from your Camera Roll, making it appear like it was captured live.

Key Tips:

  • This method works for both videos and images.
  • Don’t wait too long to reopen Snapchat, or the trick might reset.
  • This trick may stop working in future updates, so be mindful.

Conclusion

Now you can import videos and images to Snapchat and make them look freshly taken with this simple iOS trick. Try it the next time you want to share media from your gallery without the "Camera Roll" tag!

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