On Screen Tools

For every Photograph

📷 What are Tools?

When you open your camera app, you’ll see a row of icons on the main screen—these are your camera tools. Unlike modes, which change how your photo is captured (like Portrait, Panorama, or Night Mode), and settings, which adjust the camera’s behavior behind the scenes (like saving formats or storage), tools are quick-access features you can tap directly while shooting. They help you light, time, frame, or style your shot, all without leaving the camera screen. Whether you're turning on the flash, setting a timer, or switching to the front camera, these tools are designed to give you more control in the moment.

There really is a great deal of cross over between all these features, modes, etc. It can be quite confusing! Simply review the On Screen Tools information below, then the settings and modes sections. You will be on your way to understanding all your options sooner than you think, no matter how you wish to categorize them!

Flash Tools

Most tools are listed below. Since this is the most popular items, we placed it at the top and have a page dedicated to how and when to use this feature.

Learn more about your Flash Tool Here.

Apple Camera Tools

To reveal all tools, tap the ⬆️ arrow at the top center of the screen.

• ⚡ Flash
  A lightning bolt icon. Tap to switch between Auto, On, and Off.

• 🌙 Night Mode
  A moon icon appears in low light. A yellow or white slider lets you adjust exposure time.

• 🟡 Live Photo
  Shown as concentric rings (like ripples). When yellow, it’s ON. Records a short moving clip with sound.

• ⏱️ Timer
  A clock icon. Choose between 3s or 10s delay—great for group photos or hands-free shots.

• 🎨 Filters
  Three overlapping circles. Tap to preview and choose color effects like Vivid, Dramatic, or Mono.

• 🔄 Camera Flip
  Two curved arrows forming a circle. Tap to switch between front and rear cameras.

• 🖼️ Aspect Ratio
  Displays as 4:3, Square, or 16:9. Tap to change the shape of your photo.

• 🎭 Photographic Styles (newer models only)
  A layered icon. Customize Tone and Warmth settings before taking a shot.

• 🎞️ Video Resolution & FPS
  In video mode, tap text like “HD • 30” to toggle between HD, 4K, and different frame rates.

On iPhones, most camera tools appear along the top or side of the screen, depending on the orientation of your phone.

Android Camera Tools

(Android phones vary by brand, but Samsung and Google Pixel phones share many common tools.)

(Typically found along the top or bottom of the screen)

• ⚡ Flash
  A lightning bolt icon for Auto, On, and Off. Use in low light or for fill lighting.

• 🌙 Night Mode
  Appears as a moon icon, often with a star or cloud. Auto or manually selected for darker scenes.

• ⏱️ Timer
  A stopwatch icon. Choose 2s, 5s, or 10s to delay the shutter.

• 💅 Beauty Mode
  A sparkly face icon or magic wand. Softens facial features or smooths skin—mainly for selfies.

• 🎨 Filters
  Three overlapping circles or a magic wand icon. Tap to apply a visual effect before taking a photo.

• 🔄 Camera Flip
  Two curved arrows in a loop. Switch between the front and rear cameras.

• 🖼️ Aspect Ratio
  Icon may show 4:3, 16:9, 1:1, or a stretched rectangle for full screen.

• 🎞️ Video Resolution & FPS
  While in video mode, tap labels like “FHD 30” or “4K 60” to adjust resolution and speed.

• ✋ Touch Capture / Palm Gesture
  A hand icon lets you tap the screen or raise your palm to snap a photo hands-free.

• 🎙️ Voice Commands
  A microphone icon lets you take photos by saying "Capture," "Smile," or "Record video."

✅ Reminders

It’s easy to overlook these tools because they’re small icons tucked into the corners of your screen—but mastering them makes a big difference. Tools don’t require digging through menus or changing shooting modes—they’re fast, on-the-fly helpers. Once you know what each symbol means and how to use it, your photos and videos will feel more intentional and professional. The key? Tap around, try things out, and don’t be afraid to experiment. These tools are made to make your camera work for you—and they’re just a tap away.