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How to Change Camera in Iracing

A calm, step-by-step guide for iRacing beginners on how to change camera in iRacing. Quickly switch views, find a favorite angle, and improve race awareness and comfort.

If opening iRacing felt like climbing into a stranger’s cockpit, you’re not alone. One tiny control — the camera — can make or break your first laps. Learning how to change camera in iracing will remove confusion, help you see the track better, and make practice more productive.

Quick answer: how to change camera in iracing

Quick answer: To change the camera in iRacing use F1–F12 keys (default), the in-game Camera menu, or the Options > Display > Cameras settings to set favorites and hotkeys. This lets you switch between cockpit, hood, chase, and TV views instantly during practice and races.

Why this matters for iRacing beginners

Camera choice affects what you see: braking markers, apexes, mirrors, and relative speed. Many new to iRacing pick a view that hides crucial information (like poor mirror placement) and blame the sim. Once you know how iRacing works with cameras, you can pick a view that helps learning, confidence, and lap consistency.

Simple step-by-step guide

Start iRacing and load a practice session or test drive — it’s safest to change cameras off the grid.
Press the F1–F12 keys: each key steps through preset camera views (cockpit, hood, chase, roof, onboard). Try them one at a time.
Open the in-game Camera menu (press the Camera button on HUD or go to Options > Display > Cameras). Browse presets and favorites.
Assign a camera as a “favorite” or bind a key/button inside Options > Hotkeys so you can jump to that view instantly.
Save settings and test in a short run. Adjust mirror position or FOV if the view feels off.

Common mistakes (and fixes)

Mistake: Spamming F-keys in race start and losing focus. Fix: Pick one comfortable view for starts (usually chase or cockpit) and switch only once settled.
Mistake: Not binding keys on a wheel or controller. Fix: Map camera favorites to an easily reachable button so you don’t fumble mid-corner.
Mistake: Using TV/roving views in official sessions. Fix: Reserve outside/TV views for practice; they’re often not allowed in official or broadcasted events.

Quick pro iRacing tips

Set a dedicated “start” camera for qualifying/race starts and a separate chase or cockpit for nearby traffic.
Use mirror adjust and FOV settings to eliminate blind spots before you race.
Save camera favorites per car — different cars need different perspectives.
If you use VR, experiment with cockpit seating and eye height rather than standard FOV tweaks.
Toggle HUD elements off briefly to judge sightlines without clutter.

FAQs

Q: Can I change camera while driving?
A: Yes. You can switch views mid-session with F-keys or your mapped buttons, but avoid changing view during braking or in tight traffic.

Q: Are camera hotkeys customizable?
A: Yes. Go to Options > Controls/Hotkeys to bind camera favorites to keyboard, wheel, or controller buttons.

Q: Which camera is best for beginners?
A: Cockpit or chase view are most beginner-friendly. Cockpit gives depth and mirrors; chase provides clearer corner perspective.

Q: Does VR change camera behavior?
A: VR lets you physically look around, so you may prefer fewer camera switches and more cockpit tuning (seat position, eye height).

Final takeaways

Camera control is simple but powerful — learning how to change camera in iracing is one of the quickest ways to feel in control. Try the F-keys in a test session, save a favorite, map it to a button, and you’ll already be a more confident racer. For extra help, check iRacing beginners threads or friendly iRacing Discord communities — most folks are happy to share screenshots and settings.