Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL stand out as premium Android smartphones with superior software and exceptional cameras. As a long-time Pixel 2 user, I've captured countless shots and truly appreciate its capabilities.
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Click like a pro! 
The Pixel 2 camera earned the top DxOMARK score, featuring enhanced HDR+, Motion Photos, and stunning Portrait mode.
Important note: I'm skipping manual HDR+ toggles here—Google recommends keeping HDR+ on for optimal results.
Here are my top tips, drawn from real-world use, to elevate your Pixel 2 photography.
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The Pixel 2 Camera app keeps things simple without pro modes, but you can fine-tune exposure manually for photos.
Drag the slider on the right up to brighten or down to darken the scene for perfect exposure.
After tapping to focus, a padlock appears atop the exposure slider.
Tap it to lock focus and exposure, ideal for consistent results as lighting shifts or subjects move.
Portrait Mode is a Pixel 2 highlight. Despite a single lens, AI-driven software creates natural background blur and depth.
Access it via the hamburger menu. Tap to focus on your subject—get closer for stronger blur. You'll capture two versions: one with bokeh, one standard.
Switch to the front camera, and Face Retouch appears automatically—like a subtle beauty mode unavailable on the rear.
It smooths blemishes and evens skin tones for flawless selfies. Edit further if the effect feels too strong.
Motion Photos, akin to Apple's Live Photos, capture video snippets before and after each shot.
Toggle via the circular icon. Viewable as stills, GIFs, or videos in the gallery.
Smartburst uses AI (via Google Assistant) to fire rapid shots and select the sharpest during motion.
Long-press the shutter—perfect for action. All frames save to your gallery.
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Enable location tagging to relive memories by place in Google Photos years later.
Toggle in Camera settings—grouping makes browsing effortless. Disable anytime for privacy.
Zooming digitally isn't ideal, but double-tap gestures help in a pinch.
Enable under Settings > Gestures.
Repurpose volume keys for shutter, burst, or zoom—game-changer for selfies.
Set via Settings > Gestures > Volume key action.
The Pixel 2 excels in low light naturally—skip flash unless essential for authentic tones.
Post-process with filters instead.
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Pixel 2's fused OIS + EIS delivers buttery-smooth footage.
Switch it on in Camera settings for jitter-free videos.
Grids enforce the rule of thirds for balanced compositions.
Select 3x3, 4x4, or Golden Ratio via the grid icon—align subjects to lines or intersections.
Pano mode defaults to Normal—bump to High for sharper, detailed sweeps.
Adjust in Settings.
Powered by Android Oreo and Google AI, the Pixel 2 delivers pro results. These tips, tested in my daily use, unlock its full potential.
Pixel 2 or 2 XL owner? Share your camera hacks in the comments!
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