An impressive Google app resolved my issue with the Pixel 9a's camera.

      The camera on the Google Pixel 9a may not be the most advanced available, as it lacks multiple lenses and a telephoto camera, yet I find it might suffice for my smartphone photography needs. Its true potential emerges after spending some time editing the photos captured.

      Why it could be all the camera I require

      Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      The Pixel 9a’s camera app possesses a unique charm. It is intuitively designed, responsive, and effectively meets my needs as they arise. By double-tapping the phone’s power button, you can quickly access the camera app, and small adjustments to brightness and shadows can be made in real-time. It’s simpler than a comprehensive Pro mode, and can easily be overlooked if you prefer not to engage with those features.

      However, smartphone buyers typically aren’t drawn to the camera app alone, and some might find the camera's straightforward nature unappealing. The Pixel 9a includes a main lens, a wide-angle lens, and a zoom mode driven by software and AI. The app features a 2x zoom shortcut, but you can manually zoom up to 8x if desired. How could I, having praised sophisticated camera phones like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, feel content with the relatively basic Pixel 9a?

      Often, simplicity is preferable for casual photography, and enjoyable details, such as the satisfying haptic feedback when tapping the shutter or changing settings, contribute to a pleasant experience with the Pixel 9a's camera. However, the real secret lies in Google Photos, where your images are stored and easily editable. Unlike many other smartphone cameras, editing is essential to fully utilize the capabilities of the Pixel 9a.

      Initial photo quality may be lacking

      Edited in Google Photos Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      Out of the box, the Pixel 9a’s camera tends to produce washed-out images. Initially, I doubted my observations, but I now recognize some issues with the camera's dynamic range and the software's approach to color and exposure. While the camera doesn't ruin images—still delivering detail and a natural feel—it often results in photos that seem muted and lifeless, which would typically discourage me. This is where Google Photos plays a crucial role, salvaging the Pixel 9a’s camera performance.

      In most cases, and for as long as I can remember, the photos included in my phone reviews have been completely unedited. This is vitally important, as many issues can be resolved through editing, but it's not helpful for users who want to capture and share photos immediately. The best cameras shine without needing edits, and the only way to prove this is by presenting the unaltered images.

      Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      My upcoming review of the Pixel 9a will focus on how the camera's raw performance influences my evaluation. However, at OuttaFocus, I approach things differently. After just a few minutes experimenting with Google Photos’ editing tools, the Pixel 9a's images can be transformed from somewhat dull to visually appealing, with vibrant elements that were previously lacking added in. The commendable neutral performance of the Pixel 9a’s camera works in its favor, as the edits do not have to mask substantial flaws that cannot be resolved. They are blank canvases awaiting enhancement.

      Understanding the potential

      Edited in Google Photos Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      All images featured in this article were taken with the Pixel 9a and edited on the device via Google Photos. It’s a fantastic app to play around with, and the Tensor G4 processor ensures all editing occurs instantly, even those using AI tools. For instance, I modified the background in a 2x zoom photo of a cat to resemble a “fluffy duvet,” and I think the outcome appears quite natural. The photo of the Porsche badge, also captured at 2x zoom, maintained impressive detail, and a filter adjustment made the gold and red hues significantly more vibrant.

      Other images have received simple enhancements. A few minor adjustments here and there, or a quick tap of the Auto button to see the results before saving. While this might be standard practice for many photography enthusiasts, there will be those who usually forgo editing altogether. The Pixel 9a’s camera produces photos that require some editing to reveal the stunning colors and tones that only appear afterward. Understanding this is crucial if you're considering purchasing the Pixel 9a, which is why I haven’t shown the “before” comparisons here. I’ll reserve those for the review, as I want you to appreciate the potential of the Pixel 9a’s camera with a bit of help from Google Photos.

      Unless I’m specifically on a photography assignment, what I seek is a straightforward, dependable, and enjoyable camera to use. The Google Pixel 9a fulfills these criteria, and while its 2x zoom isn't optical, it is surprisingly competent, and even the wide-angle camera holds up well. Google Photos enhances the Pixel 9a