7 iPhone Camera Hacks For Better Photos

The default Camera app on an iPhone is a powerful tool, but there are several settings that can be adjusted to improve photo and video quality. These hacks do not require any extra apps or purchases, just a few taps in the Settings menu.

One of the most significant improvements can be made by shooting 4K video instead of the default 1080p. This can be done by going to Settings, then Camera, then Record Video, and selecting 4K at a frame rate of choice. It's worth noting that higher frame rates such as 120 fps use more storage than 24 fps.

Another useful hack is shooting in ProRAW, which captures far more image data than a standard JPG. This is useful for editing or large prints and is available on iPhone 12 Pro or later. ProRAW Max, which captures even more detail, is exclusive to iPhone 14 Pro or later. It can be enabled under Settings > Camera > Formats > then ProRAW and Resolution Control.

Using a tripod can also improve the quality of Night mode shots. Night mode can shoot for up to 30 seconds for maximum detail, but this setting is usually only accessible when the iPhone is completely stable. Placing the phone on a tripod, then long pressing the Night mode icon and selecting Max, 30s, unlocks the longest exposure time.

For group selfies, the front camera can capture a wider frame while held upright on Apple's latest iPhones. This can be done by opening the Camera app, switching to the selfie camera, and tapping the person-in-frame icon above the shutter.

The built-in grid overlay can also help with framing shots. It divides the frame into nine sections based on the Rule of Thirds, helping position subjects more deliberately. It can be switched on by going to Settings, then Camera, then Composition, and enabling Grid.

To prevent camera preferences from resetting, users can enable Preserve Settings. This allows preferences such as Camera Mode, Night Mode, Exposure Adjustment, and ProRAW and Resolution Control to carry over between sessions.

Finally, switching to the Most Compatible format can make it easier to share photos and videos. iPhones shoot photos in HEIC and videos in HEVC by default, formats that are not always readable on other devices. Selecting Most Compatible under Settings, Camera, Formats switches output to more universally supported formats, though file sizes will increase.

These hacks can significantly improve the quality of photos and videos taken with an iPhone, and are worth trying out for anyone looking to get the most out of their device.

In conclusion, these 7 iPhone camera hacks can help users take better photos and videos, and are easy to implement. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, these tips can help you get the most out of your iPhone's camera.