Contents » Camera » Using the camera » Using the still camera

Using the still camera

Face detection
Smile detection
Using still camera settings

To take a photo by tapping the screen

  1. Activate the camera.
  2. If the still camera is not selected, tap .
  3. Tap the capturing settings key in the viewfinder.
  4. Tap .
  5. Tap a spot in the viewfinder where you want the focus to be. The photo is taken as soon as focus is set. The photo is automatically saved on the memory card.

To take a photo using the camera key

  1. Activate the camera.
  2. If the still camera is not selected, tap .
  3. Press the camera key halfway down to use auto-focus.
  4. When the focus frame or frames are green, press the camera key fully down. The photo is automatically saved on the memory card.

To use zoom

  • Press the volume key.

To adjust exposure level

  1. In the viewfinder, tap .
  2. Tap the bar to adjust the level.

To view recently taken photos

  • In the bar at the bottom of the viewfinder, tap one of the five miniatures. Videos are identified by a .

To view all photos taken by the camera

  1. If the still camera is not selected, tap .
  2. Tap .

You can also view photos you have taken in the "Camera roll" category in Sony Ericsson Mediascape.

Tips when using the camera

Rule of thirds

Don’t place your subject in the middle of the frame. By placing it a third of the way in, you achieve a better result.

Hold it steady

Avoid blurry photos by holding the camera steady. Try to steady your hand by leaning it against a solid object. You can also use the self-timer to make sure that the phone is steady when the photo is taken.

Get closer

By getting as close as possible to your subject, you can avoid relying on the zoom. Try to fill the viewfinder with your subject.

Stay within the flash range

Photos taken beyond the maximum flash range will be too dark. The maximum flash range is about four steps from the subject.

Consider variety

Think about different angles, and move towards the object. Take some vertical photos. Try different positions.

Use a plain background

A plain background helps highlight your subject.

Keep your lens clean

Mobile phones are used in all kinds of weather and places, and carried in pockets and bags. This results in the camera lens becoming dirty and covered with fingerprints. Use a soft cloth to clean the lens.