Why Is My Camera Taking Blurry Pictures and How Can I Fix It


By Arindam Roy

Are camera photos not clear enough? We’ll help you fix it with these quick solutions.

Have a DSLR, mirrorless, or another high-end camera? You might be shooting photos and videos that are blurry because your camera is being too slow to process the images in time for you to take them. When this happens, your camera’s focus can’t follow the intended target fast enough and will automatically use what little light it has to create a blurry photo. These solutions should help fix that problem!

    1. Put your camera on a tripod: A tripod allows you to record stationary footage without the shake caused by hand-holding or placing your device on obstacles like desks or coffee pots. This leaves you with crisp shots time after time.
    2. Take your time: Hasty photography can cause blurry photos because you’re not allowing for enough light to fill the frame. This can be easily avoided by simply taking more time to compose and focus your shot before clicking.
    3. Turn off the flash: That harsh, white flash of light is meant to illuminate dark areas in a photograph or video, but it also has a tendency to overexpose the rest of your shot and leave it looking grainy and out of focus.
    4. Check your camera’s settings: This tip will help you fix blurry photos in poorly-lit conditions, but it won’t be able to help you in situations with plenty of light. If your camera’s settings don’t allow for enough light to transmit to the sensor (or lens), then that’s what you’re going to get.
    5. Get more distance between your camera and the subject: Simply moving closer might not be sufficient; if you can get a bit farther, then that’ll help. If this still doesn’t do anything, then raise your ISO (the sensitivity of the sensor) or lower your shutter speed until you find something that works for you.
    6. Take some extra photos: You could simply shoot some more photos to try and get one that’s in focus. However, this might not be a good idea because once you take your current shot, the camera will store that image up and never let you record another again until it’s deleted. Instead, try holding the shutter open for as long as possible after it takes your first shot, then take another just before it closes to try and get one to focus. Many cameras let you do this for free (or require an extra purchase), but if yours doesn’t…try recording the first part of a video then pause in quick-time intervals until all you have left is an out of focus shot.
    7. Get closer to your subject: This might not work for sports footage or outdoor events, but for small objects and still shots…it could be perfect. Simply move your camera in closer to your intended subject and see if that helps.
    8. Use continuous focus: If your camera has a feature like this, then try using it to help you get blurry photos in focus. Continuous Focus modes allow the camera to track a moving object so you don’t even have to click the shutter button once!
    9. Shoot in manual mode: If your camera is fairly advanced, then this could help fix blurry photos. As you know, the camera has an aperture, shutter speed and ISO to deal with. But, manual mode lets you adjust these settings yourself to get the shot you want.
    10. Reset your setting on your camera: This might make for a temporary fix, but it could be all you need to do to get sharper images.Why Is My Camera Taking Blurry Pictures and How Can I Fix It
    11. Focus manually: If your camera is lacking in automatic focus features (or there’s too much light for it to use them), then try focusing manually and see if that gets the job done! It’s not recommended for most instances, but in some situations…it might be your best bet.
    12. Focus on the subject you want to take a photo of: If you’re shooting something like a portrait that requires perfect focus, then try focusing on one specific area of that person rather than the background or other items around them.
    13. Take multiple shots and choose the best one: This is an extreme measure, but it could be your only option to produce a clean photo with crisp focus.
    14. Shoot in HDR: HDR is a process that combines multiple photos into one image by using the information of the first (known as a reference) to help maximize the exposure, contrast and saturation of the second. This will usually result in a photo with more definition than one taken in normal conditions. However, it requires multiple photos (which can’t be timed correctly).
    15. Try shooting in RAW: RAW is an uncompressed file that can be edited later. You can edit details like timing and focus once you have created a lower-resolution JPEG version (for posting on social media).
    16. Use Image Stabilization: If your camera supports it…it can help.
    17. Try using a different lens: If you’re shooting with your kit lens, then try swapping it for something longer (or wider) to help get more distance between your subject and the camera.
    18. Use a macro lens: With this, you can get closer to your subject and get clear shots that are way in focus.
    19. Try changing your ISO: This will let you increase the amount of light captured by the sensor (which can lower noise), but at the cost of more light transmission to your sensor. If it’s still too much light…try dropping down a notch (or two).Why Is My Camera Taking Blurry Pictures and How Can I Fix It
    20. Turn your flash off: When shooting photos in low-light conditions, you can use a flash to help light your subject. However, sometimes it will cause blur/ghosting in the frame (especially with moving subjects). Try turning it off for a clearer shot.
    21. Try taking the photo again: If you already took photos of the same scene or person…take another one as soon as possible!
    22. Reset your camera’s settings: This might be something like when you set up your camera for the first time…or something more advanced like trying to fix a problem with white balance.
    23. Change your view: If you’re taking photos from a high place, try moving to a lower one to capture more of the scene.
    24. Use a timer: If you are trying to get a shot of yourself and you want it to be as sharp as possible…then use the timer instead of pressing the shutter button on your phone or camera.
    25. Turn off WiFi/Bluetooth: This is not always an option, but it can prevent interference from other devices that might be in range (which could also cause blur).
    26. Shoot in burst mode: Burst mode allows you to take multiple photos in quick succession. If done right, then some will turn out better than others…so this is a trial and error process.
    27. Change the composition of your shot: When taking photos, try moving in and out from different heights (think of a pyramid) so your photo isn’t just tall. It will make for a more interesting shot.
    28. Remove the background: There are times when we want to remove our subject from the background…which is why you can place them on a black backdrop or even fabric (for example).
    29. Try changing your lens: If you have one that’s not well-suited for photography, then try another one (or try editing). Also, experiment with focal lengths if you have one that doesn’t quite work as expected.
    30. Set your focus manually: This is only useful if you have a camera that has both auto and manual options.
    31. Turn off the flash: Unless the flash is essential, then don’t use it. It’s better to take a photo in low-light with natural light instead of using flash.
    32. Use burst over multi-shot: With newer cameras, they offer multiple shots (in burst mode)…however that option might not always work well or it may not be as good as you hoped. Burst is usually better than multi-shot (although I use them often).
    33. Turn off the auto mode: This one I’m sure everyone knows about…however it is a good reminder that you shouldn’t just always rely on the auto mode.
    34. Look at the background: When you are taking a portrait, look more at the background than your subject. You don’t want anything distracting in the background.

Also read: Best DSLR Cameras Below Rs 50,000 in 2021

Read more: Cheapest DSLR Cameras in India in 2021

  1. Use natural light for your photos: One of my favorite photo resources online is this site (click here to be taken to it)…there is also another one (click here). These sites tend to show photographers using natural light in their images, as well as give tips on how to take better photos.
  2. Don’t use flash during sunset or sunrise: We have all seen a picture of someone standing right in front of sunset/sunrise…but maybe not in the middle of it. Try taking a photo during a time that only requires natural light to get your shot, then edit the photo afterwards.
  3. Take one photo: This is probably the best tip of all because it will teach you to wait until you’ve taken your first shot before taking another. Try going live on social media once you have taken your first picture (or if you’re doing something where people will be watching).
  4. Force the focus on your subject: With manual lenses, this means to use the focus ring…try it out and see if that helps at all or at least enough for your shot.
  5. Try recording the sound of your shutter: This is a great tip for getting clear photos (that are in focus) by using the sound of the shutter to help you know when to press it and when to let go.
  6. Use a different photo editing app: There are too many photo editing apps out there to count…you just have to figure out which one is right for you.
  7. Try taking photos of objects that are far away: If you have tried everything else and you’re still struggling with blurry photos…then try this because objects that are far away will require less light in order to get a clear shot.
  8. Freeze your subject: Sometimes this can get photos in focus…however, like setting a timer, you could also take one of your “still” photos and place it on the frozen subject for a clear shot.
  9.  Be patient: We all need to be patient at times…just as if we were shooting something that required patience (like waiting for a child to come out from behind the couch). If shooting something that takes longer than usual…then just wait.
  10. Be prepared with multiple batteries: Don’t let batteries go dead at the wrong time of day! Try having more than one charged and ready for when you really need it (which might be anytime).
  11. Use an external flash instead of your camera: If you have a small flash (or if you already have your camera’s flash attached), then use it to help get less blurry photos.
  12. Change your mode: If you’re taking photos manually, then try changing your mode. This could be from manual to auto, or vice versa. It could also be from automatic to burst…etc. When in doubt…try something different!
  13. Try turning off face-detection focus: Again, this is not an option on every phone or camera, but if it is…try turning it off and see if that helps with getting clearer shots (at least with some subjects).
  14. Use the back-button focus: If your camera supports this, then try it out to see if you can get more clear shots.
  15. Try taking photos at different times of day: Not everyone likes to use natural light, so this isn’t for everyone. But, if you like to use the “golden hour” when the sun is either rising or setting…then give that a try.
  16. Try using burst mode: Burst mode is actually pretty effective if done right…simply take the photo and choose the one you like.Why Is My Camera Taking Blurry Pictures and How Can I Fix It
  17. Use a slower shutter speed: If your goal is to include more of a scene in your photo, then you’ll need to use a slower shutter speed. This will make for blurry photos though (unless done right).
  18. Get closer to your subject: This isn’t always an option, but if it is…try taking photos or videos from different distances. Sometimes it works out better than others…but it can also make for an interesting shot.
  19. Change directions: If something is in front of you, try looking at it from above/below/from the side/etc. This is good if you want something to look more ‘normal’ in your photo.
  20. Try shooting long: When taking photos, try taking a longer exposure (or even a series of photos) and then combining them all together later on. Sometimes this can work if you do it well enough.
  21. Use the screen to help focus: This is not always an option, but if your phone does have a screen…try using it to help you focus.
  22. Use a tripod: As mentioned earlier, this one is essential for capturing sharp photos (but also for getting better ones overall).
  23.  Take multiple photos and choose the best one: This method requires multiple shots…so you’ll need to plan ahead. However, it’s a great trick to use when trying to capture the “perfect” photo (because sometimes we’re not patient enough).
  24. Use a new location: This one is something I like to do often because it helps me get away from the same shot that I’ve been taking for a while. This can be good if you have an idea of where you want to eat or see on your next trip, etc.
  25. Try shooting in RAW: At times…this is the only way to avoid blur…but doing so may not always be easy (especially if using a smartphone).
  26. Try something new: Even if you do everything right…there will still be times when a new shot idea makes for the perfect photo. Try it out and see what happens.
  27. Use your phone as a timer: This is something I’ve done for a long time…and it works out well. This is especially helpful if you’re multitasking on your phone (like playing a game while taking photos).
  28. Use burst mode/Zoom: These are other ways to take multiple pictures and choose the best one later. I’d recommend using burst mode because it will help with getting more clear shots quicker than most other modes.
  29. Use two phones: This is something I always do when I’m trying to take a photo, but it isn’t perfect. However, if you have a newer phone with dual cameras…then try using both cameras at the same time (or use your other camera’s zoom).
  30. Try the HDR mode: This one is definitely not for everyone, but it can help out with blurry shots. Don’t expect this to work every time though.
  31. Don’t drink too much coffee: Anything that affects your body’s ability to wake up will make for blurry photos as well.
  32. Wait for your eyes to adjust: Many times when we go outdoors, our eyes aren’t adjusting to the light as quickly as we want them to. If you’re at the beach, in the shade, or in a dark room…then you’ll have to wait for your eyes to adjust first.
  33. Look at your camera’s resolution: This is a good way to make sure that you’re able to capture everything that you might be aiming for (like if you were taking photos of fireworks).
  34.  Use two hands: Often times people use one hand or their phone as a camera…but this can make for blurry photos.
  35. Turn on your flash: If you’re in a dark room or if you want to take a photo of something that’s inside…then try turning on the flash.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Is there a speedometer on an SLR camera?

A: No, but we recommend not shooting at high speeds when using an SLR since it will get more data than your eye can see instantaneously. You should review your images at a higher resolution on your computer to check for sharpness.

Q: What is best underwater camera?

A: There are many different brands of cameras that can be used underwater. Just remember that the housing will lower your limit on how deep you can go. We have created a “Deep Diving Guide” to help you learn more about this topic.

Q: Is the Pro-DSLR Holster waterproof?

A: Yes. The Pro-DSLR Holster is waterproof to 30 feet. You can also use it in a few different temperature ranges from 26 degrees fahrenheit up to 104 degrees fahrenheit.

Q: How do I protect my camera from dust?

A: There are many different ways to protect your camera from dust and sand. One of the best ways is to put it into a plastic bag that you seal completely, but you have to be careful not to touch the shutter or any buttons on the camera or you could ruin your shot. Another way is to keep it safe in another protective sleeve like a backpack or tank bag.

 

You may also be interested in:
Top DSLR Cameras Below 30000 Rs/-
Top DSLR Cameras Below 20000 Rs/-
Top DSLR Cameras Below 40000 Rs/-
What is Shutter Priority in Photography? – All You Need to Know
What is Sensor Cleaning? – A Quick Guide

About The Author

Reply