How A Cracked Camera Lens Impacts Photo/Video Quality
To understand the impact of a cracked lens on photo and video quality, it’s first important to understand the anatomy of your phone’s camera. Realistically, your phone’s camera lens will almost never get damaged unless your phone undergoes a pretty serious beating; instead, it’s the protective cover over the phone that will get scratched or damaged.
The Role Of The Camera Lens
Focusing Light Correctly
The main role of a lens is to focus light onto the image sensor. When a lens is damaged, it may not be able to focus light correctly.
Reducing Glare & Reflections
Lenses and lens covers may feature anti-reflective coatings in order to reduce glare and reflections. The shape of the lens is also optimized to reduce reflections.
Maintaining Image Sharpness
There are several components working with the lens to maintain image sharpness, including auto-focus motors and optical image stabilization (OIS) elements to counterbalance the lens against shaky or jerky movements.
Common Camera Lens Damage
Cracks & Scratches
Cracks and scratches can create a number of different problems. Light refracts differently through cracks, which can create flares and distortions. The cracks also scatter light, which can lead to a blurring effect. Cracks and scratches are two of the most common types of lens damage.
Debris Under The Lens
When the lens cover cracks, debris can lodge itself under the lens cover, obstructing light and creating dark spots in your photos.
Condensation Or Water Exposure
When your lens cover is cracked, it’s easy for condensation to make its way between the cover and the lens itself. Water refracts light differently, creating blurry, hazy, and unclear photos.
Picture Quality Issues From Damage
Blurry Or Unfocused Images
Don’t start feeling bad about your photo-taking skills if your pictures are coming out blurry or unfocused—it could just be damage to your lens cover or lens. Take a close look at your phone camera and check for condensation, cracks, scratches, or debris—a repair might be all you need!
Glare, Reflections, & Lens Flare
Lens flare, reflections, and glare can be caused by phone cracks as well as condensation; if you’re noticing them, especially in bright light or nighttime conditions, there’s a good chance your phone lens or lens cover is damaged.
Dark/Bright Spots In Photos
Dark and bright spots are commonly caused by debris and cracks or moisture-causing lens flares, respectively.
When To Replace A Damaged Lens
Assessing Repair Costs
Start by talking to a phone repair shop like Cell Mechanics. We can help you determine the cost of replacing or repairing your lens or lens cover.
DIY Lens Replacement Risks
DIY repairs and replacements can void your warranty, especially if you damage your own phone.
Protect Your Camera For Optimal Quality
To avoid poor picture quality, you can take steps to protect your camera—and your phone. Consider purchasing a protective phone case and a lens protector. You should also gently clean your phone’s camera lens regularly. These steps can help you prevent a damaged lens or lens cover from ruining your pictures.
If you’re dealing with a broken camera on your phone, we can help. Visit Cell Mechanics today!
