How do I import a video from Photos Library?
You can import videos directly from your device's Photos library into Smooth Operator. This is the default import source on iOS.
Step 1: Grant Photos access
The first time you use Photos import, the app asks for permission to access your Photos library. The prompt says:
"This app needs photo library access to import videos for editing."
Tap "Allow" or "Select Photos..." to proceed.
If you previously denied access, you will see a warning:
"Photos access is required to import from your library." "Enable 'Full Access' for Smooth Studio, then return here."
Tap the "Open System Settings" button (Mac) or go to Settings → Privacy → Photos (iOS) and enable access for Smooth Studio.
Step 2: Choose a video
- Open the Import sheet by tapping the "+" button.
- Make sure the "Import From" picker is set to "Photos Library" (iOS) or "Photos" (Mac).
- Tap "Choose Video from Photos." The Photos picker opens.
- Browse and select a single video. Only one video can be selected at a time.
- The app retrieves the video from your library.
Step 3: Name your project
Enter a project name or keep the default ("Imported Video").
Step 4: (Optional) Attach motion data
If you have a separate motion.json file, you can attach it. This is optional and not related to the Photos library itself.
Step 5: Import
Tap the import/confirm button. The project is created and opens in the editor.
What to know about Photos import
- iCloud videos may take longer. If your video is stored in iCloud and not downloaded to your device, the app waits for it to download. You may see a loading indicator. Make sure you are on Wi-Fi.
- Reference-based import: The app stores a reference to the Photos library asset rather than copying the video. This saves space but means the original must remain in your library.
- Proxy generation: A low-resolution proxy is created in the background for smooth editing playback.
- Portrait videos: If your video is portrait (vertical), the app automatically sets the output orientation to Portrait.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Photos access denied | Go to Settings/System Settings → Privacy → Photos and enable access for Smooth Studio. |
| "Could not identify selected video" | The selected item did not return a valid identifier. Try selecting again. |
| "Could not find video in Photos library" | The asset may have been deleted from Photos. Check your library. |
| "Failed to load video" | The video may be corrupt or still downloading from iCloud. Wait and try again. |
| Import takes a long time | The video is likely downloading from iCloud. Ensure you are on Wi-Fi and the video is fully downloaded. |