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There is no Google-approved list of six settings that every Pixel owner must enable, and Google’s help pages do not establish that these controls are off by default across all models. Still, six built-in options are worth checking: Top Shot or Motion Photos, gridlines, framing hints, RAW/JPEG control, Palm timer, and Frequent Faces. Their availability and value depend on your Pixel model, Camera app version, and how you take photos.
Which Pixel camera settings should you turn on?
Start with the controls that fit how you shoot. Top Shot can help when a moment is brief; gridlines and framing hints can guide composition; Palm timer helps with hands-free selfies. RAW + JPEG is aimed at people who edit photos, while Frequent Faces is an optional face-related feature that warrants a deliberate privacy choice.
Camera menus vary by model and software generation. If a setting is missing, your phone may not support it, or the control may be named or placed differently. Google documents the available controls and steps in its Pixel Camera settings guide; the pages do not quantify changes in photo quality, storage use, or keeper rate.
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Top Shot captures a burst around a photo and can recommend a best frame; with Motion Photos, you can also choose a different frame. This can be useful when people are moving or a brief expression matters. Motion capture has a different storage and review workflow from taking a single still, so it is not necessarily the right choice for every shot.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
Google’s instructions differ by generation: on Pixel 10 and later, set Top Shot to Auto; on Pixel 9a and earlier, choose Auto or On. The exact control may depend on the device. Google also says Auto Best Take requires a Pixel 10 or later, Google Photos, and Top Shot enabled. See Google’s Top Shot instructions for the supported options.
2. Gridlines
Turn on a grid if you want a visual guide for keeping a horizon level or positioning a subject in the frame. It is a composition aid, not a setting Google claims will automatically improve image quality.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Open Camera settings and choose a grid type if your model offers the control. Google documents grid selection in its Camera app settings guide.
3. Framing hints
Framing hints provide visual alignment guidance, including whether the phone is angled up or down. They can help when you are trying to hold the camera level, but the control is not available on every Pixel.
Look for the option in Camera settings. Google describes the feature and availability caveat in its guide to taking high-quality photos on Pixel.
4. RAW + JPEG control
RAW + JPEG is worth considering if you plan to edit photos and want a RAW file alongside the JPEG. RAW is an editing option, not a universally better everyday capture setting; it adds a file and workflow to manage. Google’s instructions explain how to enable the control, but do not claim that RAW improves every photo.
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
- Open Camera and go to Camera settings.
- Under Advanced options, turn on RAW/JPEG control. Google says this setup step is not required on Pixel 8 Pro.
- Return to Camera, open the photo settings, and switch on RAW + JPEG.
Menu labels may vary by model and app version. See Google’s Camera settings instructions.
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5. Palm timer
For a hands-free selfie, the Palm timer lets you trigger the countdown with a palm gesture. Google says it is available on Pixel 6 and later, including Fold. The timer must be on, and both your face and a straight palm facing the camera must be fully visible for the gesture to work.
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Set a timer in Camera, frame yourself and raise your palm toward the lens. Google’s Pixel selfie instructions cover the gesture and positioning requirements.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.6. Frequent Faces
Frequent Faces can help recommend better shots of faces you photograph often. On Pixel 6 and later, Google says it can also help the camera show skin tones more accurately. This feature uses face data, so treat it as a personal choice rather than a default recommendation: Google says the data is saved on the device, not sent to Google, and deleted when Frequent Faces is turned off.
Review the setting in Camera settings and enable it only if you are comfortable with that behavior. Google explains the feature in its Top Shot and Frequent Faces help.
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These six are a practical starting point, not a universal checklist. Use your shooting habits to decide what else belongs in quick reach. Google’s settings guide includes quick-access controls; supported Pro models may offer 50 MP capture, and Astro guidance may be useful for night-sky photography. Those options are model- or use-case-dependent, not upgrades every owner needs.
Quick Recap
- If you repeatedly change options while shooting, consider quick-access controls.
- If you edit images, prioritize RAW + JPEG; otherwise, leave it off unless you want that workflow.
- If you photograph the night sky, consult Google’s low-light and astrophotography guidance. Google advises keeping the phone steady and suggests a tripod or stable surface for astrophotography; neither is necessary for ordinary camera use.
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