Archives Glossary Terms

Portrait Mode

Portrait Mode (n.) A camera feature that simulates shallow depth of field to create professional-looking portraits. It uses a combination of multiple lenses, depth sensors, and AI to separate the subject from the background. The background is then artificially blurred to…

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Post-Processing

Post-Processing (n.) The manipulation or enhancement of a photograph after it has been taken. In mobile photography, post-processing can be done directly on the smartphone using built-in tools or third-party apps. Common post-processing tasks include adjusting exposure, contrast, and color; cropping…

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Pro Mode

Pro Mode (n.) Also known as Manual Mode, this camera setting allows users to manually adjust various parameters like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. Pro Mode gives mobile photographers more control over their images, similar to a DSLR camera. It’s…

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RAW File Format

RAW File Format (n.) An uncompressed image format that preserves all the data captured by the camera sensor. In mobile photography, RAW support is increasingly common in high-end smartphones. RAW files offer greater flexibility in post-processing, allowing for adjustments to exposure,…

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Rear Camera

Rear Camera (n.) The main camera system on the back of a smartphone. Modern phones often feature multiple rear cameras with different focal lengths and functions. This can include wide-angle, ultra-wide, telephoto, and macro lenses, along with depth sensors. The primary…

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Red-Eye Reduction

Red-Eye Reduction (n.) A camera feature that minimizes the red-eye effect in photos, where subjects’ eyes appear red due to flash reflection. In mobile photography, this is achieved through pre-flash techniques or post-processing software. While less common in modern smartphones due…

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Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity (RH) (n.) The amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount the air can hold at that temperature, expressed as a percentage. In mobile photography, high relative humidity can lead to condensation on lenses and…

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Remote Shutter

Remote Shutter (n.) A device or feature that allows the camera shutter to be triggered from a distance. In mobile photography, this can be achieved through wireless accessories like Bluetooth remotes, connected smartwatches, or even voice commands on some devices. Remote…

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Resolution

Resolution (n.) The amount of detail an image contains, typically measured in pixels. In mobile photography, resolution is often expressed in megapixels. Higher resolution allows for larger prints and more extensive cropping without losing image quality. However, factors like lens quality…

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Rule of Thirds

Rule of Thirds (n.) A compositional guideline that divides an image into a 3×3 grid, suggesting that important elements should be placed along these lines or at their intersections. In mobile photography, many camera apps offer a grid overlay to help…

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Saturation

Saturation (n.) The intensity or purity of a color in an image. In mobile photography, saturation adjustments are a common part of post-processing. Increasing saturation can make colors more vibrant and eye-catching, while decreasing it can create a more subtle or…

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Self-Timer

Self-Timer (n.) A camera feature that delays the shutter release for a set amount of time after the shutter button is pressed. In mobile photography, self-timers are useful for taking group photos that include the photographer, reducing camera shake in low-light…

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Selfie Camera

Selfie Camera noun Introduction The selfie camera, often simply referred to as the “front camera,” has become an integral part of modern social life. With the advent of social media, taking and sharing selfies has become a global phenomenon, making…

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Sensor Cleaning

Sensor Cleaning (n.) The process of removing dust or debris from a camera’s image sensor. This is most common in dSLR and Mirrorless cameras were the sensors can be accessed when changing lenses. While less common in sealed smartphone cameras, some…

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Sensor Size

Sensor Size (n.) The physical dimensions of a camera’s light-sensitive area. In mobile photography, sensors are typically smaller than in dedicated cameras, which affects light gathering and depth of field. Larger sensors generally perform better in low light and produce images…

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Shutter Speed

Shutter Speed (n.) The length of time a camera’s shutter is open to expose light to the sensor. In mobile photography, this is typically controlled electronically and affects motion blur and exposure. Faster shutter speeds freeze action and reduce camera shake,…

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Slow Motion

Slow Motion (n.) A video recording mode that captures footage at a high frame rate and plays it back at a lower rate, creating a slow-motion effect. In mobile photography, slow-motion capabilities vary between models, with some offering extreme slow-motion at…

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Symmetry

Symmetry (n.) A compositional technique where elements on one side of an image mirror those on the other side. In mobile photography, symmetry can create visually striking and balanced images. It’s often found in architecture, reflections, or carefully arranged scenes. Many…

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Telephoto Lens

Telephoto Lens (n.) A lens with a longer focal length than standard, used for capturing distant subjects. In smartphones, telephoto lenses enable optical zoom, allowing for closer shots without losing image quality. They’re particularly useful for portraits, wildlife, and sports photography.…

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Time-Lapse

Time-Lapse (n.) A technique where images are captured at set intervals and then played back at a faster speed, compressing time. Mobile phones often have built-in time-lapse modes that handle both capture and processing. This feature is great for capturing slowly…

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