How to Lock Focus and Exposure Separately on iPhone in iOS 14

Sep. 1, 2020

The stock camera app has got some notable enhancements iniOS 14including the new exposure compensation value control. You can use this new feature to lock focus and exposure separately on iPhone running iOS 14. Times when you are unable to balance exposure and focus perfectly, the ECV feature can have a role to play in letting you snap desired shots like a pro. If you are yet to go hands-on with the ECV feature in theiPhone Camera app, let me guide you through!

Lock Focus and Exposure Separately in iOS 14

For those unfamiliar, theiOS 13camera features a combined focus and exposure control, which is not useful especially if you want to have precise control. Though third-party camera apps offered the ability to fine-tune these two key aspects individually, its absence in the stock camera app was badly missed.

While the automatic adjustment of focus and exposure may be pretty time saving, the camera app doesn’t always get it right. And this is where the option to have precise control over these pivotal components come into the picture.

Unfortunately, ECV feature only supports the newer iPhone models. So, be sure to check out whether or not your iPhone is compatible with the ECV feature.

Only iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR support this camera feature.

Keep in mind that changing ECV value in the iPhone Camera app impacts all the photos and videos captured during the session. If you find it helpful, you can also choose to save it (more on it later).

2. Now, eitherhit the chevron icon or swipe up(from above the shutter button) to access the slightly hidden controls.

3. Next, tap on“+/-”button to reveal the new ECV control.

4. Next up, simplydrag the horizontal ECV sliderperfectly to change the shutter speed as well as f-stop from -2 to +2.

Pro Tips:

If you prefer to use ECV, you can choose to save the setting across camera sessions as the value automatically resets when you quit the Camera app.

1. Open theSettings appon your iPhone.

2. Scroll down and choose theCameraoption.

3. Next, tap onPreserve Settings.

4. Finally, turn on the switch forExposure Adjustment.

So, that’s the way you can lock exposure and focus with ease on your iPhone. As someone who prefers to have better control over these key camera components, I have found this feature very helpful. And I guess your story could be the same if you always challenge yourself tocapture pro shots.

What’s your take on ECV? It would be great to have your feedback in the comments below.

An old school bibliophile who turned a tech nerd out of obsession. When he is not digging into hacks and tracking down stories that are breaking the internet, you may find him reciting poems.