iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Samsung’s official material does not describe a single automatic long-exposure switch on Galaxy phones. Long exposures come from manual control instead: set the shutter speed yourself in the stock Camera app’s Pro mode, or install Expert RAW from the Galaxy Store for RAW capture, more manual controls and a few special modes. Which route you can use depends on your phone model and software version, so check those first.
Which method fits your phone
A public Galaxy community question asks, “Is there a auto long exposure mode on Samsung?” The short answer for Samsung’s current guidance is that you control the exposure time yourself. The two routes below cover that, and the table shows where they differ.
| Factor | Pro mode (stock Camera app) | Expert RAW (Galaxy Store app) |
|---|---|---|
| Where it lives | Camera app, mode list, Pro | Separate app, downloaded from Galaxy Store |
| Shutter speed control | Manual; the available range varies by model | Manual shutter speed, along with ISO, white balance, exposure and focus |
| File output | Not stated in the Samsung material reviewed | JPEG and RAW (Linear DNG 16-bit), per Samsung UK support |
| Night sky tools | Not stated in the Samsung material reviewed | Astrophotography mode, with an optional Sky Guide, on the S23 and S22 series running T OS |
| Device requirement | Follows the phone’s own Camera app; check your model’s Pro controls | Galaxy S20 or later, according to Samsung UK support; some special features are narrower |
| Setup effort | Low: open Camera and switch modes | Higher: install the app, then learn its separate controls |
For most readers, Pro mode is the simpler starting point. Choose Expert RAW if you want RAW files you can edit heavily, or if your phone supports the astrophotography or multiple-exposure options described below.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Check your phone before you start
Samsung’s pages attach different requirements to different features, so read them as separate conditions:
#1 Best Overall
- 62" Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick Combo: Extendable phone tripod for iPhone and Android, combining a tripod stand and selfie stick in one lightweight design for selfies, photos, videos, vlogging, live streaming, and family gatherings.
- Adjustable Height & 360° Rotation: The tripod extends up to 62 inches to support standing shots, group photos, video calls, and content creation. The 360° rotating phone holder allows vertical or horizontal shooting.
- Stable Phone Holder for Daily Recording: Designed for hands-free video recording, online meetings, tutorials, livestreams, and social content. The phone holder keeps your device positioned securely for clear, steady shots.
- Wide Compatibility with Phones and Cameras: Fits most smartphones from 2.8" to 5.7" wide and includes a universal 1/4" screw mount for compatible cameras, action cameras, webcams, and camcorders.
- Wireless Remote & Complete Kit: Includes 1 phone tripod/selfie stick, 1 universal phone holder, 1 adapter, and 1 wireless remote shutter. Backed by 12-month after-sales support for everyday shooting needs.
- Expert RAW: Samsung UK support states that Expert RAW is available on Galaxy S20 or later.
- Astrophotography and multiple-exposure Labs options: Samsung’s instructions describe these for the S23 series and S22 series running T OS.
- Special photo options: These require 12MP resolution in the workflow Samsung describes. Set the resolution in the Camera settings before you shoot.
- Software: Feature names and menu locations can change with updates, so confirm them on your own screen. Samsung’s support pages are the reference to check against.
Long exposure for moving water, light trails, clouds and panning
Pro mode handles this kind of shot. A slower shutter lets in more light over time, and moving subjects appear as trails or blur while stationary parts stay sharp.
- Open the Camera app and choose Pro from the mode list.
- Select the main camera lens. Use the main lens for consistent results.
- Mount or brace the phone so it cannot move.
- Lengthen the shutter time gradually, checking the preview after each change.
- Lower ISO if the image looks too bright, because a high ISO adds noise while you lengthen the exposure.
- Focus on the subject before you take the shot.
- Take the photo and review the result at full size.
Samsung’s S23 Ultra example uses a shutter of 1/15 to 1/20 second for a panning or long-exposure effect (Samsung Newsroom Malaysia, 2023). Treat that as one model’s example for one effect. It is not the right setting for every Galaxy phone or every scene.
Rank #2
- 【Sturdy and Stable】: Made of premium aluminum alloy and stainless steel, Liphisy phone tripod with remote keeps your device stay securely in place for still shots and video recording.
- 【Multi-angle Shot】: With a max height of 64”, this tripod stand with a 210-degree rotation head and 360-degree rotation holder allows you to capture shots from any angle, catering to different photography needs.
- 【Wireless Remote Included】: Package includes a wireless remote that connects to your cell phone easily, making it a breeze to snap photos or video recordings.
- 【Height Adjustable】: The height of this cell phone tripod with remote can be adjusted from 17” to 64” and the easy lock mechanism makes it really easy to set up. It gives you an excellent vantage point for capturing photos and videos.
- 【Wide Application】: Compatable with different phone and camera, this tripod is great for photography and video recording, perfect for travel and home use.
In bright daylight, a 1/15 or slower shutter may overexpose the frame even at the lowest ISO. Samsung’s material reviewed does not establish whether a physical ND filter works with the stock lens on every model, so the practical options are to shoot at a darker time of day, or to check whether Expert RAW’s software ND feature is available on your phone.
Night sky and star scenes
Expert RAW’s astrophotography instructions from Samsung UK support describe the workflow for supported devices:
Rank #3
- Steel-Reinforced Steadiness：Featuring a tri-functional design, this 66-inch aluminum phone tripod stand integrates a steady base, telescoping arm, and multi-angle phone holder - an all-in-one solution for content creation, from overhead product shots to full-body portraits
- Intuitive Angle Control： Precision-engineered locking flanges enable instant switching between portrait, landscape, and 45° angled shots. Universally compatible with mobile phones ranging from 2.2" to 3.6" widths without slippage, making it a versatile addition to your Tripod & Monopod Accessories
- True Mobile Rig Flexibility：Engineered for steady everyday use rigidity, this adaptable cell phone tripod mount ensures rock-solid grip on smartphones. Its built-in Cold-Shoe slot enables seamless attachment of vlogging accessories like LED panels or mics
- Vibration-Free Content Creation： Integrated wireless Bluetooth remote (10m range) eliminates touchscreen interference. Perfect for capturing crisp stills or initiating smooth video recordings hands-free – an essential tool among modern Tripod & Monopod Accessories for solo creators
- In the Box: 66" Metal iphone tripod stand, 360° rotatable phone mount, 10m range phone camera remote, Includes 36 months of technical support and product coverage
- Install Expert RAW from the Galaxy Store and open it.
- Open Astrophotography mode.
- Adjust focus, white balance and exposure time.
- Optionally turn on Sky Guide to help locate stars and orient the frame.
Check the device and software conditions in the section above before you rely on this. The astrophotography option is not described for every Galaxy model.
Light drawing with a long exposure
Samsung’s S23 Ultra light-drawing example (Samsung Newsroom Malaysia, 2023) uses Expert RAW with manual focus and a 15-second shutter. It adjusts ISO for the RGB tube light used to draw. The example calls for:
Rank #4
- 100% LIFETIME PROTECTION: Enjoy reliable performance with lifetime coverage, guaranteeing your tripod is always protected against any defects or issues.
- Ultimate Materials & Engineerin: EUCOS's phone tripod utilizes modified Nylon PA6/6 for all-weather durability. The engineered polymer delivers exceptional crush/shear resistance and toughness, achieving optimal rigidity-flexibility balance.
- Rapid Extension Tripod for Phone: Glide the rod in a single, fluid motion to convert it from a compact tripod into a full 62" selfie stick. Achieve instant elevation for dynamic filming.
- Studio-Grade Phone Rig: Safely harness phones from 2.2" to 3.6" wide with pro-level clamping and effortless framing. Built-in cold shoe expands your creative options with lights and mics.
- Hands-Free Control: The Wireless remote enables instant pairing with smartphone and remote capture from up to 33ft/10m. Ensures rock-solid stability for blur-free photography and Start/Stop video recordings effortlessly—all without device contact.
- A tripod to keep the phone still
- A small LED soft light and an RGB tube light
- A portrait subject who stays still while the light is drawn around them
Treat these as Samsung’s example settings and gear for that phone and effect. The LED light and tube are creative choices, not requirements for every long exposure.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Keep the phone steady
Stability matters more than any single setting. Samsung recommends keeping the phone as steady as possible for Night mode and using a tripod where you can. A stable phone tripod with a compatible clamp is the clearest accessory choice, because Samsung recommends a tripod for steady night shots and includes one in its light-drawing setup.
Best Value
- Portable All-in-One Tripod for iphone: Vimose newly designed all-in-one tripod combines a phone tripod and selfie stick. It offers exceptional portability with a compact folding design, collapsing to just 12.5 inches, making it easy to carry and perfect for travel and everyday use.
- Adjustable Height & Flexible Shooting: Our iPhone tripod can extend up to 62 inches and features an upgraded 360° rotating &180° tilt phone holder. It allows for flexible angle adjustments and easy capture of wider views, adapting to different shooting scenarios to ensure you always get the perfect shot.
- Stable & Durable Phone Tripod Stand: Crafted from lightweight yet premium aluminum alloy, Vimose tripod for phone delivers exceptional durability, impact resistance and water-resistant performance for long-lasting use. It features a wider leg spread for greatly improved wind stability, while the high-friction rubber base effectively prevents horizontal slippage. Combined with anti-slip silicone pads, Vimose tripod stand boosts load capacity and anti-tipping performance, making it sturdy and reliable for both indoor and outdoor use, even in damp or drizzly conditions.
- Detachable Wireless Remote for Easy Shooting: This selfie stick for iPhone supports up to 33 feet range, is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, and offers quick pairing and easy use. The remote can be stored in the handle to prevent loss and securely holds smartphones 2.2 to 3.7 inches wide.
- Versatile Cell Phone Holder for Every Occasion: This tripod is ideal for selfies, TikTok live, family photos, vlogs, live streaming, YouTube videos, travel recordings, FaceTime, and Instagram. With broad compatibility, it caters to content creators and everyday users alike, providing stable support for all your shooting needs.
When comparing tripods, check these points:
- Clamp compatibility with your phone’s width and case thickness
- Stability on uneven ground and in wind
- Minimum and maximum height
- Packed size and weight
- Mounting method (clamp, shoe, or adapter)
A Bluetooth camera remote can trigger a mounted phone with less handling. Confirm that the remote works with your camera app before you buy one, because the Samsung material reviewed does not establish compatibility across all Galaxy devices.
Troubleshooting common problems
- The image is too bright: Reduce ISO first, then shorten the shutter time. If your phone supports Expert RAW’s software ND feature, check that option in the app. Do not assume every Galaxy has the same control.
- The whole frame is blurred: Improve support and reduce movement during capture. Samsung advises steadiness for Night mode.
- Only moving elements are blurred: This is usually the intended effect of a long exposure, not a fault. Shoot a short-exposure test frame to confirm the still parts of the scene are sharp.
- You cannot find an Expert RAW feature: Check your model against the requirements above, update the app and phone software, and confirm the feature name in your current interface.
- Menu labels differ from these instructions: Samsung can change app features, supported devices and labels. Trust the labels on your phone over any written path.
Samsung’s support pages and Newsroom articles are the references for the requirements and examples above. Recheck them before you buy accessories or follow a model-specific setting, because the examples date from 2023 and 2024.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →
