zandersm
Level 1 (0 points)

Q: Is this something normal? Lens Imperfections?

hi,

 

i have some weird bubbles in my pictures when the camera is pointed near or in the direction of bright light. Direct sunlight or angled. I don't know what they are, but they seem to be imperfections in the camera lens of my iPhone 6. Is this normal or not? Thanks in advance! BTW, the lens is completely clean on the outside.

 

Thanks!

bubbles in photo.JPG

iPhone 6, iOS 8

Posted on Sep 25, 2014 10:05 AM

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zandersm

Q: Is this something normal? Lens Imperfections?

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  • Helpful answers

  • by Brett L,

    Brett L Brett L Sep 28, 2014 6:14 AM in response to zandersm
    Community Specialists
    Sep 28, 2014 6:14 AM in response to zandersm

    Hi zandersm,

     

    If you are having issues with the quality of pictures from your iPhone camera, I would suggest that you troubleshoot using the steps in this article -

     

    iPhone: Hardware troubleshooting

     

    Specifically -

    Camera isn't functioning or has undesired image quality

    1. If the screen shows a closed lens or black image, force quit the Camera app.
    2. If you do not see the Camera app on the Home screen, try searching for it in Spotlight. If the camera does not show up in the search, check to make sure that Restrictions are not turned on by tappingSettings > General > Restrictions.
    3. Ensure the camera lens is clean and free from any obstructions. Use a microfiber polishing cloth to clean the lens.
    4. Cases can interfere with the camera and the flash. Try gently cleaning the lens with a clean dry cloth or removing the case if you see image or color-quality issues with photos.
    5. Try turning iPhone off and then back on.
    6. Tap to focus the camera on the subject. The image may pulse or briefly go in and out of focus as it adjusts.
    7. Try to remain steady while focusing:
      • Still images: Remain steady while taking the picture. If you move too far in any direction, the camera automatically refocuses to the center.
        Note: If you take a picture with iPhone turned sideways, it is automatically saved in landscape orientation.
      • Video: Adjust focus before you begin recording. You can also tap to readjust focus while recording. Exiting the Camera application while recording will stop recording and will save the video to the Camera Roll.
        Note: Video-recording features are not available on original iPhone or iPhone 3G.
    8. If your iPhone has a front and rear camera, try switching between them to verify if the issue persists on both.

     

    It sounds like you have already done many of the steps there, but go ahead and do the rest. If you are unable to resolve the issue, there is one last step -

     

    My issue is still not resolved. What do I do next?

     

    Thanks for using Apple Support Communities.

     

    Best,

     

    Brett L

  • by zandersm,

    zandersm zandersm Sep 28, 2014 11:39 AM in response to Brett L
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Sep 28, 2014 11:39 AM in response to Brett L

    I dont understand how any of these options would make a hardware defect any better. I just asked if it was normal. Which judging by the response, is not. I will be exchanging my phone this week. Thanks for the support.

  • by Brett L,

    Brett L Brett L Sep 29, 2014 1:28 PM in response to zandersm
    Community Specialists
    Sep 29, 2014 1:28 PM in response to zandersm

    You are welcome.

     

    Brett L

  • by rbrylawski,

    rbrylawski rbrylawski Sep 29, 2014 1:50 PM in response to zandersm
    Level 6 (11,941 points)
    Sep 29, 2014 1:50 PM in response to zandersm

    Ghosting or lens flair is what you seem to be describing and yes, when a lens is pointed directly at bright lights this phenomenon is normal.  The lens in iPhone 6, while greatly improved over previous lenses, is still subject to the laws of flair and or ghosts.