Learning how to use a camera is a very simple process. For iPhone users, accessing the camera simply means tapping an icon, aiming, then pushing the circle button at the bottom of the screen. As technology progresses, users have been treated to more features to help them point, focus and edit their photos. Use this comprehensive guide to Apple iPhone 1 through 7 cameras to learn how to take amazing pictures in no time at all.
About All the Apple iPhone Cameras
Apple has always set the standard for the mobile market, encouraging competitors to focus on camera quality and features. While many facts about Apple will surprise you, here is a brief history lesson on the progress the iPhone cameras have made since 2007. Before you can learn how to use your iPhone camera, you need to understand all of your phone’s capabilities. There are tons of comparison articles available online, but here are all of the differences in a nutshell:
Apple iPhone 1
Released in 2007, 1st generation iPhones offered a 2-megapixel rear camera and with geotagging features.
Apple iPhone 3G and 3GS
While the 3G iPhones did not offer a camera upgrade, the 2009 iPhone 3GS offered a 3-megapixel camera with video capabilities. Tap to focus features were also introduced, allowing users to take better-quality pictures with far less effort.
Apple iPhone 4 and 4S
The iPhone 4 introduced significant cameral updates when it was released in 2011. Along with an upgrade to a 5-megapixel rear camera, excellent features such as LED flash and illuminated sensors were also introduced. Users could also enjoy 5x digital zoom by sliding their fingers across the screen.
The 4S took this technology a step further, introducing an 8-megapixel rear camera and 0.3-megapixel front camera. While the cameras both operated the same way, the front camera had a noticeably lesser quality despite offering face detection, image stabilization, filter options, and HD-quality video.
Apple iPhone 5, 5C, and 5S
Because of the popularity of the iPhone, the 5th generation in 2013 offered several different models and price points. The 5 and 5C offered a slight upgrade from the 4S, including a 1.2-megapixel camera and 5 element lenses. The 5S packed in the upgrades, introducing features like Custom Sony Exmor RS, slow-motion video, IR filters, image stabilization, higher pixel rates and burst mode. Most of these features could also be accessed with the touch of a button, prompting more people to replace their professional equipment.
Apple iPhone 6 and 6 Plus
Much like the 5th generation, the 6th generation kept many of the convenient camera features in on the model. Instead, they added to the available features. The only notable difference was the Retina HD display and additional touchscreen controls. Panorama photos, True Tone Flash, and autofocus took a lot of the guesswork out of using the front and read cameras.
Apple iPhone 6S and 6S Plus
The 2015 iPhone 6S offered another upgrade to the overall quality of the camera. Now offering a 12-megapixel back camera and a 5-megapixel front camera allows for crystal clear quality. Digital features such as optical image stabilization, exposure control, retina flash, and more are automatic, so no extra work is needed to set up these features.
Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
In September 2016, the 7th generation of iPhones were released to the public. Much like the previous generation, very few upgrades were made to the standard model. While users were treated to a 7-megapixel front camera, they would need to upgrade to the Plus to enjoy the enhanced rear camera. iPhone 7 Plus phones included 10x digital zoom and a telephoto lens. This allowed for more on-the-go editing with very little effort.
How to Use an iPhone Camera
Before you can start taking great pictures for Snapchat and other social networks, you need to understand how your camera works. All iPhones have very similar photo capture screens, with the options prominently displayed at the bottom. To take a simple picture, all you need to do is aim and press the circle button at the bottom of the screen. To switch between front and back cameras, simply tap the icon in the upper corner.
Almost all the features you need to take the photos can be accessed at the bottom of the screen. If you are out and about, take as many pictures as possible, then edit them later.
iPhones are designed to be compatible with a wide range of apps. This can make photo editing incredibly simple. After you take your photo, simply load it into the app of your choice to modify it. If you don’t want to Photoshop your favorite pictures, try using one of these quick and easy apps instead.
Another option is to rely on social media to edit your photos and make them look cool. Snapchat, for example, offers tons of filters and effects that you can access just by swiping your screen in the app. Facial changing features can also be accessed by tapping your face in the picture and holding down. Then simply swipe to find something fun and interesting. A list of some of the best Snapchat filters can be found here.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask an Expert
If you are having a problem with your iPhone camera, there are many sources that can help you. The first step is to visit this helpful Apple Support page. It lists some of the most common technical issues the cameras have and how to quickly fix them. Much like the straightforwardness of the phone, each how-to guide is brief and very easy to follow. If you are still having issues, consider speaking with a tech before replacing or upgrading your phone. Many of the issues iPhone cameras have can be solved with the touch of a button.
Apple iPhones are designed to be easy for everyone to use. Large buttons allow you to find what you are looking for right away. Because the photo screen hasn’t changed too much over the years, jumping from a 1st generation iPhone to the latest model is a breeze. To learn more, visit our blog today.