How to get portrait mode for Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S8 rear camera

By Deepak Singh • Updated On 17 Apr 2018

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Portrait mode is no longer an optional extra but has fast grown into a feature that consumers demand. And that makes its absence a bit tough to swallow on flagship phones. Out of the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus launched this year, only the latter has dual rear cameras.

Consequently, there is no Live focus or Portrait mode on Galaxy S9 for the rear camera. The same is also true for last years’ Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus.

Thankfully, there is a simple solution to the problem. You can actually add portrait mode to the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S8 and the end result is quite convincing.

Also Read: How To Disable Hello Jio Voice Assistant Button From MyJio App

How to shoot portrait images with blurred background on Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S8

Step 1: To start with download the Google Cam app port APK for Samsung phones (All thanks to wonderful folks at XDA). We tried several other GCam ports with Pixel 2 Portrait mode but none of them was stable on Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S8. The option linked above works well.

We have tried this app for the Exynos variant of Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S8 (In India).

Step 2: Tap the hamburger menu on the top left and tap on settings.

Step 3: Now go to BSG Mod settings option.

Step 4: Select Model as Nexus 6 and Turn on toggle next to “Portrait mode on all models”

Step 5: Exit or kill Google camera app

Step 6: Now open the app again, press the menu button and you will find the option for portrait mode if it isn’t there.

Alternative

If you find the portrait mode option to be a little too unstable, here is what you can do:

Step 1: In the BSG Mod settings, Turn off the portrait mode on all models option.

Step 2: Kill and restart the app.

Step 3: Now select lens blur option from the menu.

The results we are getting from the app are actually pretty good for objects placed within 2 meters of range.

Add portrait mode to Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S8

Please note that any change you make in the Camera settings will reflect in the interface only when you restart the app. We find the Lens blur mode preferable as its more stable. But, Yes, shots in portrait mode are better if you can deal with occasional jitters.

How To Get Portrait Mode On LG V30 Plus and LG V30

Deepak Singh

Deepak Singh is a technology journalist and editor with over 13 years of experience covering consumer electronics. A computer engineering graduate, he has developed deep expertise in chipsets, displays, and hardware performance.

Over the past decade, Deepak has reviewed more than 700 products, including smartphones, laptops, TVs, and audio gear. He currently leads the editorial team at Smartprix, focusing on accurate, useful, and hands-on tech reporting.

When he’s not testing new devices, Deepak enjoys reading and spending time with his family.

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