AI vs Manual Mode: Which Delivers Better Smartphone Photos?

Learn which mode is best suited for your style, whether you prefer effortless clicks or fine-tuning every detail. Make informed decisions and shop for the best camera phone on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv.
AI vs Manual Mode: Which Delivers Better Smartphone Photos?
3 min
05 May 2025
Taking photos with your phone has become a part of daily life—whether it is a quick snap of your morning coffee or a sunset during your trip. Today’s smartphones come with smart cameras that use AI to make pictures look great automatically. Some also offer manual mode, where you can adjust things like brightness and focus on your own. AI is best if you want quick and easy photos, while manual mode is good if you like to play around with settings. The best choice depends on what you are comfortable with and what kind of photo you are trying to take.

You can read about the best smartphones that offer AI and manual mode camera features on Bajaj Mall. You can visit one of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 to check out a wide range of smartphones from brands like Samsung, vivo, realme, OPPO, and Xiaomi. Once you have selected your preferred smartphone, you can buy it while staying in your budget with flexible financing options from Bajaj Finserv. Check your pre-approved loan eligibility in a few steps and buy your favourite gadgets without any financial strain.

Understanding AI Photography in Smartphones

AI photography in smartphones is designed to make photography effortless. With the help of artificial intelligence, your phone’s camera can automatically adjust its settings based on what it detects. Whether it is a low-light environment, a moving subject, or a bright outdoor scene, AI identifies the scene and optimises your settings to capture the best shot possible.

It does not stop there. AI can enhance facial features in portrait mode, reduce blur in motion shots, and even correct colours for more vibrant images. These smart features help users click high-quality photos without needing expert knowledge. That is why AI is particularly beneficial for casual users who prefer quick results with minimal effort.

However, AI may sometimes over-process photos, making them look unnatural. That is where having the option to switch to manual mode becomes useful. You can then control the settings yourself for a more realistic output. Several smartphones today strike the perfect balance by offering both AI and manual modes.

Manual camera mode in phones

Manual camera mode allows users to take full control of their photography. Unlike AI mode, which automatically adjusts the settings, manual mode lets you fine-tune each element of your shot. Here is what you can control:

ISO: Adjust this to manage the camera's sensitivity to light. It ranges from 100 to over 25,000 depending on the type of camera configuration in your phone. The lowest setting enables you to click pictures during peak sunlight while if you are shooting at night, higher ISO might give you optimal results.

Shutter speed: Control how long the shutter stays open. A slower speed captures more light; a faster one freezes motion.

White balance: Change the colour temperature to match your lighting conditions.

Focus: Manually set the focus point for more precise shots.

Exposure: Decide how bright or dark your image should be.

Manual mode is perfect for those who want to experiment and learn photography in-depth. It lets you click unique, artistic shots that reflect your creativity. However, it does require practice and a basic understanding of photography principles.

Modern smartphones come with both AI and manual modes, allowing users to switch depending on the situation. Whether you are a beginner or an enthusiast, there is a smartphone that fits your needs.

Key differences between AI and manual mode

When choosing between AI and manual camera modes, it helps to understand how they differ. Here is a breakdown to guide your decision:

Ease of use:

AI mode is user-friendly and automatic.

Manual mode requires some technical knowledge.

Customisation:

AI chooses settings for you.

Manual mode lets you adjust ISO, shutter speed, and more.

Consistency:

AI offers consistent results, ideal for daily use.

Manual mode may vary depending on user skill.

Image style:

AI enhances colours and sharpness, sometimes heavily.

Manual shots tend to look more natural and truer to life.

Speed:

AI is quick and suited for spontaneous moments.

Manual mode takes time, ideal for planned shots.

Whether you value convenience or creativity, both modes have their strengths. The best smartphones let you switch between modes effortlessly, so you get the best of both worlds.

Real-world comparison: AI vs manual mode photos

When it comes to actual photography, both AI and manual modes perform differently based on the scenario. Here are a few examples to highlight how each performs:

Low-light photography:

AI boosts brightness and reduces noise automatically.

Manual mode lets you set a slower shutter speed for better detail.

Portrait shots:

AI detects faces and adds background blur intelligently.

Manual mode allows you to customise focus and exposure for better depth.

Landscape photography:

AI enhances colours and sharpness for social media-ready images.

Manual mode enables you to control exposure and contrast for more dramatic shots.

Motion photography:

AI reduces blur using automatic stabilisation.

Manual mode lets you capture motion trails by adjusting shutter speed.

These examples show that both modes have unique advantages. While AI helps you click great pictures with little effort, manual mode gives you creative freedom.

Financing options with Bajaj Finserv

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Frequently asked questions

Do AI camera modes support advanced features like portrait or macro photography?
Yes, AI camera modes can detect and enhance portraits and macro shots by automatically adjusting focus, lighting, and background blur. These features are built-in and work seamlessly, making it easier for users to capture professional-looking photos.

How does AI optimise camera settings in real time?
AI scans the scene using machine learning and adjusts key settings like ISO, focus, white balance, and exposure. It does this within milliseconds, helping you click a well-balanced photo instantly, even if lighting or subjects change.

Can manual mode outperform AI in professional photography scenarios?
Yes, in many cases, professional photographers prefer manual mode. It gives them full control over every aspect of the image, allowing for precise adjustments that AI might not provide. Manual mode is ideal for creative and complex photography needs.

Are there situations where manual camera mode is more effective than AI?
Yes, especially in low-light, long exposure, or creative settings where fine control is required. Manual mode allows you to tailor each setting for your shot, which can lead to more satisfying and higher-quality results than automatic adjustments.

Can I buy a gaming phone on Easy EMIs?
Yes, you can purchase your preferred camera smartphone on Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI options.If you are an existing user of the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card:

1. Explore the range of gaming mobiles on Bajaj Mall

2. Choose the preferred model and visit a Bajaj Finserv partner store to check it out in person.

3. Use your Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card and avail of Easy EMIs for affordable monthly payments

4. Enjoy your new mobile on Easy EMIs

If you do not have a Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, start by checking yourcheck your eligibility for a Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card and take the first step towards enjoying the affordability and convenience of Easy EMIs.

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