How to use the camera app on Google Pixel phones

The camera on a Google Pixel phone is one of its standout features. Whether you’re capturing family moments or snapping photos of your latest DIY project, the Pixel Camera app helps you take great photos and videos with ease.

At Asurion, we help millions of people get the most out of their devices. Here’s our step-by-step guide to using the Camera app on your Google Pixel phone, so you can make the most of every shot.

Open the Camera app

You can access the camera in a few different ways.

• From the Home screen, tap the Camera app.
• Press the Power button twice quickly to launch the camera, even if your phone is locked.
• Swipe up from the bottom corner of the Lock screen.

Take a photo

Once the app is open, you can take a photo in just a few taps.

1. Make sure Photo is selected at the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap the screen to focus on a subject if needed.
3. Tap the Shutter button to take the picture.

Your photo will save automatically in the Google Photos app.

Switch between camera modes

The Camera app offers several modes, like Portrait, Night Sight, and Video.

1. Swipe left or right on the screen to switch modes.
2. Choose Portrait for blurred backgrounds, Night Sight for low light, or Video to record a clip.
3. Tap the Settings gear in the corner to adjust options for each mode.

Zoom in or out

To get closer to your subject or capture more in the frame:

• Pinch the screen to zoom in or out.
• Or tap the zoom button (like 1x or 2x) to switch between lenses, depending on your Pixel model.

Record a video

Switching from photos to videos takes just a second.

1. Swipe to Video mode at the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap the Record button to start recording.
3. Tap it again to stop.

Videos will also save in the Google Photos app.

Use advanced features

Pixel phones include helpful tools for better photos and videos.

• Top Shot suggests the best frame from a motion photo.
• Photo Unblur (on select models) can sharpen blurry images.
• Magic Eraser lets you remove unwanted objects from photos in Google Photos.
• Real Tone ensures accurate skin tones for all people.

Customize camera settings

To fine-tune your camera experience:

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Tap the Settings gear in the top corner.
3. Adjust features like timer, aspect ratio, and resolution.

Having camera issues?

If your Pixel camera won’t open, won’t focus, or the app crashes often, you might need support. A simple restart or software update can help, but if the problem continues, visit a uBreakiFix® by Asurion store for a free device diagnostic.

FAQ

How do I open the camera quickly on a Pixel phone?

Press the Power button twice to open the Camera app quickly.

Can I take photos using voice commands?

Yes. You can say “Take a photo” with Google Assistant while the Camera app is open.

Where do my Pixel photos and videos save?

They save in the Google Photos app by default.

How do I turn on Night Sight?

Swipe to Night Sight in the Camera app or let your Pixel suggest it automatically in low light.

What is Magic Eraser?

Magic Eraser is a tool in the Google Photos app that lets you remove unwanted parts of a photo.