Since its debut with the Google Pixel 4 in 2019, the Astrophotography Mode has amazed users with its ability to capture stunning images of the night sky. Previously, users had to rely on the Pixel’s automatic detection system to activate the feature. But as of August 2024, Google has added a major update. It allows you to manually trigger Astrophotography mode, giving you even more control over your night sky shots.
Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or just someone eager to experiment with the stars, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this powerful tool on your Google Pixel phone.
What’s New with Astrophotography Mode in 2024?
The August 2024 update to the Google Camera app now lets you manually activate Astrophotography mode, perfect for times when your phone doesn’t automatically recognize the night sky or when you want to experiment with different lighting conditions. The feature remains available across the latest Pixel devices, so you can unlock its full potential with your Pixel 6, Pixel 7, or the newest Pixel 8 series.
How to Enable Astrophotography Mode on Your Pixel
Once you’ve updated the Google Camera app to the latest version, you’re ready to take your astrophotography to the next level. Follow these simple steps to manually activate the feature:
- Open the Camera App: Launch the Google Camera app on your Pixel device.
- Switch to Night Sight: Tap the Night Sight button. If you can’t find it, swipe to Camera mode using the button at the bottom of the screen.
- Activate Astrophotography: In Night Sight mode, tap the Astrophotography icon (a crescent moon) located at the bottom-right of your screen.
- Set Exposure Time: Move the slider to “Astro” on the right. This triggers the long exposure necessary for astrophotography.
- Capture the Shot: Press the Shutter button. The camera will take 16 images, each with a 16-second exposure, and merge them into one stunning shot.
- Tip: You can tap the Stop button to end the shot early, and it will save the photo with whatever data it has collected.
The camera will typically take about four minutes to complete the exposure, capturing breathtaking details of the night sky.
Tips for Perfect Astrophotography Shots on Your Pixel
While manual astrophotography mode offers more flexibility, there are some important tips to keep in mind to ensure you get the best results:
- Use in Dark Areas: Astrophotography mode relies on low light. If you try to use it in a well-lit area, your Pixel will shorten the exposure time. For best results, ensure you’re in a dark location with minimal ambient light.
- Avoid Moving the Phone: The slightest shake can ruin an astrophotography shot. Set up your phone on a tripod or a stable surface before starting the long exposure. Even if you manually trigger the mode, make sure the camera is still for the entire duration.
- Watch for Light Pollution: While Astrophotography mode can capture incredible details of the night sky, light pollution can still negatively impact the photo. For optimal results, use the feature in areas with minimal artificial lighting.
- Enable Time-Lapse: Want to capture a time-lapse of the night sky along with your regular astrophotography shots? Here’s how:
- Tap the Settings button in the bottom left corner.
- Go to More settings > Advanced.
- Toggle the Enable Time Lapse for Astro switch to on.
Troubleshooting
- If the Astro Feature Doesn’t Appear: Make sure your Google Camera app is up to date. Head to the Google Play Store, search for the Camera app, and tap Update if available.
- In Well-Lit Areas: If you activate astrophotography mode in an area that’s too bright, the exposure time will automatically adjust. To get around this, you can start the exposure in a dark place, but be cautious—moving the camera to a lit area mid-exposure can lead to a blurred image.
Capture Stunning Nightscapes with Your Pixel
The addition of manual astrophotography mode on the Google Pixel is a game-changer for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of the night sky. Whether you’re photographing stars, planets, or even the Milky Way, your Pixel phone has the power to turn your photos into captivating cosmic images.
Best Locations for Astrophotography
If you’re looking for the perfect place to use your Pixel’s astrophotography mode, consider locations with minimal light pollution. Corynnia Station in outback NSW, Australia, for example, is a luxury outback retreat known for its breathtaking night skies. Situated on a vast, working farm, this destination offers expansive 360-degree views, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and capturing the night sky.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced photographer, Corynnia Station offers the perfect setting to test out your new astrophotography skills. With clear skies and minimal artificial lighting, you’ll be able to photograph the stunning celestial displays like never before. Book your visit now!
With the manual activation of Astrophotography Mode on your Google Pixel, the possibilities for night sky photography are endless. From setting up the perfect shot to capturing intricate details of the cosmos, your Pixel phone can help you create stunning images with ease. So grab your phone, head to a dark spot, and let the stars guide you to your next breathtaking shot.
