Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThere is no Google-published set of six Pixel Camera settings that every owner should enable. These six are useful starting points, but availability depends on your Pixel model and software, and the right choices depend on how you shoot. Check the controls in your Camera app rather than assuming they are off by default.
Which Pixel Camera settings should you turn on?
Google’s Camera settings and menu paths vary by phone and software version. The options below can help with composition, hands-free selfies, or editing, but they are not guaranteed to improve every photo. Follow the linked Google instructions if a control is named differently or missing in your app.
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1. Top Shot or Motion Photos
Top Shot captures a burst around a photo so you can choose a different frame if the selected still misses the moment. Google’s instructions say to set Top Shot to Auto on Pixel 10 and later; on Pixel 9a and earlier, the listed choices are Auto or On. The controls and availability may differ between models.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Top Shot and Motion Photos are related capture options, not identical labels for every phone. Motion Photos record movement around a still and let you select a frame. That means a different capture and review workflow from taking only a single still. Google says Auto Best Take requires a Pixel 10 or later, Google Photos, and Top Shot enabled. See Google’s Top Shot instructions.
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2. Gridlines
Turn on a grid if you want a visual guide for aligning a horizon or framing a subject. It is a composition aid, not a setting Google says will automatically improve image quality. Open Camera settings and choose a grid type if your app offers the control. Google documents the option in Camera app settings.
3. Framing hints
Framing hints can provide visual guidance for holding the phone level and indicate whether the camera is pointed up or down. This may help when you are composing a shot quickly, but the control is not present on every Pixel. Google describes the feature in its high-quality photo guidance.
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4. RAW/JPEG control
Enable RAW/JPEG control if you plan to edit photos and want both a RAW file and a JPEG. In Camera settings, open Advanced options and turn on RAW/JPEG control, then select RAW + JPEG in the camera. Google notes that the setup step is not required on Pixel 8 Pro. RAW is an optional editing workflow, not a universally better everyday format; Google’s instructions explain how to configure it in Camera app settings.
5. Palm timer
For a hands-free selfie, the Palm timer can start the camera timer when you show your palm. Google says it is available on Pixel 6 and later, including Fold. Turn on the timer first; then make sure both your face and a straight, camera-facing palm are fully visible. See Google’s Pixel selfie instructions.
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6. Frequent Faces
Frequent Faces can help the camera recommend better shots of people you photograph often. Google says that on Pixel 6 and later it can also help the camera show skin tones more accurately. Google states that face data is saved on the device, is not sent to Google, and is deleted when you turn Frequent Faces off. Because this feature uses face data, enable it only if you are comfortable with that use. The setting and its explanation are covered in Google’s Top Shot help.
How do you turn on Top Shot on a Pixel?
- Open the Camera app and go to its settings.
- Find Top Shot and choose Auto on Pixel 10 or later. On Pixel 9a and earlier, choose Auto or On, as available.
- If you want Auto Best Take, confirm that you have a Pixel 10 or later, Google Photos, and Top Shot enabled.
Google’s current model-specific guidance is in its Top Shot help page. If your phone shows different controls, use the options listed for your device rather than assuming the newer instructions apply.
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How do you enable RAW on a Pixel?
- Open Camera settings and select Advanced options.
- Turn on RAW/JPEG control. Google says Pixel 8 Pro does not require this setup step.
- Return to the camera controls and choose RAW + JPEG when you want both formats.
Use this when you expect to edit the image; for routine snapshots, the extra RAW workflow may not be useful. Google’s settings instructions describe the control and setup.
When should you choose a different setting?
The six picks above are not a universal checklist. Google also documents other options that may better fit specific habits, including quick-access controls for people who frequently change settings, 50 MP capture on supported Pro models, and Astro guidance for night-sky photography. Feature availability depends on the Pixel model. For astrophotography, Google advises keeping the phone steady and suggests a tripod or stable surface; a purchase is not required if you already have a steady place to set the phone. See Google’s Camera settings, photo quality guidance, and low-light and night photography instructions.
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- Secure Grip, Streamlined Protection: Rely on the OtterBox legacy with Commuter Series—total protection with rubber-gripped edges for a secure hold. It's a slim, easy-to-install case providing durable quality and a precise fit for hassle-free defense
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