Smartphone cameras have evolved dramatically in the last decade. From a modest 0.1 MP resolution to over 200 MP today, smartphone cameras have come a long way. Some high-end models even feature 1-inch sensors, offering image and video quality similar to professional cameras.
While these cameras are getting bigger and better, they are still fragile. A simple mistake can damage them permanently. Here are five things you should avoid doing to avoid permanent damage to your smartphone’s camera system:
Don’t record a laser light show with your smartphone:
Rehearsal for the laser show. (Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)
Concerts often use high-intensity laser lights. Shooting that with your smartphone can permanently damage the camera sensor, due to its high energy density, affecting both the lens system and the sensor itself.
Mounting on a bicycle:
Even the affordable Bounce Infinity e.1 has a built-in SIM card (Image credit: Bounce)
Mounting your smartphone on a bicycle or scooter can permanently damage the smartphone’s camera. This is due to the vibrations caused by the rapidly moving vehicle. To mount a smartphone on a bicycle, use a special mounting kit designed to absorb vibrations.
Do not use a smartphone underwater:
Water splashes around a display of waterproof Sony smartphones and tablets during the 2014 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada (Reuters)
While some brands display underwater photography capabilities, this can permanently damage the device, even with an IP rating. Prolonged use underwater heats the phone and condensation can cause water to enter the system and damage the camera.
Filming in extreme temperatures:
The tripod fits all types of cameras, from DSLRs to smartphones, webcams and GoPros. (Image source: Nandagopal Rajan/The Indian Express)
Taking photos in extreme temperatures, whether too cold or too hot, can damage the camera. An example is directly photographing the sun for long periods, especially during solar eclipses. However, you can safely photograph the moon with a smartphone, and some phones even have specific moon modes.
Using Camera Lens Protectors:
The Xiaomi 13 Pro’s camera has Leica lenses on the back. (Image source: Shruti Dhapola/Indian Express)
Although they may look protective, poorly installed or low-quality lens protectors can scratch your camera lenses. Even the smallest gaps between the lens and the protector can trap dust particles and potentially damage the lens.
Needless to say, dropping your smartphone can also damage camera functions such as stabilization and focusing capabilities.
