Buzz
Nowadays, smartphones almost take on the role of cameras when capturing memorable moments, landscapes, and even professionally conceptualized photos. To capture even better photos, not only do you need impressive specifications, but software is also equally important, including manual adjustment mode.
Curious about what manual mode on smartphones entails? Wondering why you should opt for a smartphone equipped with manual mode? Let's delve into it in this article!
What is Manual Mode on Smartphones?
Firstly, let's address what manual mode on smartphones actually means and when it comes into play.
Simply put, manual mode allows you to adjust various camera settings directly on the interface while taking photos, ranging from basic to advanced parameters. These include aspects like color temperature, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, and more.
This enables you to capture desired photos, overcoming environmental limitations such as low light conditions, unfavorable light sources, or for artistic exposure photography.
The widespread recognition of manual mode can be attributed, perhaps, to the Nokia Camera software on the renowned Nokia Lumia phones of that era.
However, in reality, before it was specifically termed, this mode had long existed on phones in the form of customizable lighting options: Cloudy, Fluorescent, Sunny, Incandescent, etc., and customizable color tones from EV -5 to +5. Perhaps you recall.
Currently, most manufacturers offer their own manual mode within default camera apps, and even third-party apps available on Google Play Store or the App Store.
Manual Mode Not for Everyone
While once considered a hallmark of 'flagship' smartphones in the past, as it was a feature predominantly found in high-end devices, its position has gradually shifted with the widespread integration of AI technologies.
Part of this shift is due to its accessibility. Utilizing this mode requires a certain level of understanding of various parameters. For instance: What does adjusting ISO achieve? How does shutter speed affect the image? What if the indoor lighting is too yellow?
However, acquiring these skills is not overly challenging; you can easily learn from various forums or instructional videos on YouTube.
Once you grasp it, you'll discover it opens up a new perspective on smartphone photography; sometimes, taking control of your photos yourself is preferable to relying on pre-programmed AI.
If your phone has this feature, don't hesitate to spend a little time exploring it! And if it doesn't, here are a few suggestions to consider:
Buying a Smartphone with Manual Mode
As mentioned, nowadays, most smartphones come with camera manual mode features, while some phones may label it as Pro Mode or Professional Mode.
For instance, in the mid-range smartphone segment, Xiaomi offers models with customizable camera settings such as the Redmi Note 10 Pro or Mi 11 Lite.
Samsung, spanning from the mid-range to high-end, boasts excellent representatives like the Galaxy A series with the A52 and A72, as well as the flagship Galaxy S21 series.
Additionally, there are other notable contenders from OPPO, Realme, Vivo, and more, which also allow deep intervention into photo settings.
Moreover, there are numerous outstanding offerings from OPPO, Realme, Vivo, and others that also provide extensive control over camera settings.
Does your phone have a manual mode? Have you ever tried using it? Feel free to leave a comment below!
