The consistent camera experience is one of the main selling points of Apple’s iPhone over Android flagships. The Camera app sometimes fails to open or does not focus properly on the main object. You might end up with blurry, out-of-focus photos. Instead of questioning your iPhone or your photography skills, you will have to fix camera focus not working on iPhone.
Your holiday and vacation memories are bound to be ruined when the focus doesn’t work in the Camera app. Before your Photos app is filled with blurry images, check out the troubleshooting tips to fix camera focus on iPhone.
1. Check for physical damage
Did you accidentally drop your iPhone and damage the camera module on the back? You should check the back for any cracks or scratches. If there is physical damage, none of the tips below will fix the camera focus issue. You will need to visit the nearest Apple service center to have the camera lenses repaired. We also advise you to invest in a sturdy iPhone case to avoid such a situation.
2. Reopen the Camera app
A simple restart of the camera can fix the focus issue for you.
Step 1: Close the Camera app.
2nd step: Swipe up and hold from the bottom to open the Recent apps menu.
Step 3: Swipe up on the Camera app to completely close it.
Relaunch the Camera app and try to focus on the subject.
3. Restart iPhone
Often, a simple restart of the iPhone can put things back in order. If you still have problems with the Camera app, you should restart the iPhone and try again.
Step 1: Simultaneously press and hold a volume button or the power button until the power off slider appears.
2nd step: Drag the slider and after 30 seconds press and hold the side button again.
This only works on iPhones with Face ID. For iPhones with the physical home button, press and hold the side button to bring up the power off slider and restart the phone.
4. Manually adjust the focus
Sometimes the Camera app may not focus properly on the main object when there are too many elements in the scene. The camera can focus on the background object, not the main person standing in front. You can tap on the object in the viewfinder menu and change the focus. Press the shutter and take the perfect shot to share on social media.
5. Check the lighting status
The iPhone Camera app may struggle to focus on the main subject in difficult lighting conditions. If your iPhone supports Night mode, the Camera app will automatically switch to Night mode. Press the shutter button and hold the camera steady to take your shot. Capturing the final image may take some time, as the app takes multiple photos and combines them for a better result.
When using night mode, try holding the phone still. Even a small shake will result in blurry photos. If your iPhone doesn’t support Night mode, use the flash or move to a well-lit area.
6. Keep main object away
You need to keep the main object away when taking pictures. The app may not focus correctly when the object is too close to the camera module. Move the object away, manually adjust the focus (see the fourth solution above) and press the shutter button.
7. Let your iPhone cool down
After a long video recording or gaming session, your iPhone’s temperature may reach an uncomfortable level. The Camera app may not launch, focus, or function properly in such a situation. You have to wait, let your iPhone cool down and use the Camera app again.
8. Update iOS
Apple bundles camera updates with the iOS version. The company frequently releases new camera features and bug fixes through iOS updates. You need to update your iPhone to the latest version to enjoy all the benefits.
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2nd step: Scroll down to the General menu.
Step 3: Open ‘Software Update’ and install the pending iOS version from the following menu.
If you’re having trouble downloading iOS updates, read our troubleshooting guide to fix the problem.
Capture beautiful memories
Camera focus not working on iPhone can lead to an unpleasant experience. Before resetting your iPhone from scratch, you should follow the above tips and get the smart camera focus back in no time.