Samsung Galaxy camera problems: blurry photos and camera app crashing

Most blurry photos come from a dirty lens. If the Camera app will not open, a restart and cache clear usually fix it.

Blurry or hazy pictures

1. Wipe the lens with a clean microfibre cloth. Fingerprints and pocket fluff are the number one cause.
2. Remove the case or screen cover if it blocks part of the lens. Check any clip-on lens too.
3. Tap the screen on your subject so the camera focuses.
4. Hold the phone steady and hold still for a second after pressing the button.
5. In low light, use Night mode, which takes a longer exposure.
6. Look in the Camera Settings (cog icon) for options like Scene optimiser or high resolution modes. Turning them off or on can change how pictures look.

Camera will not open, or crashes

1. Restart the phone.
2. Open Settings, Apps, Camera, tap Storage, then Clear cache.
3. Check the phone has free storage, and delete some items after backing up photos.
4. Update the Camera app in the Galaxy Store and update Software update in Settings.
5. Close apps that use the camera, such as video calls or torch apps.
6. Try Safe mode. See our guide on apps crashing and Safe mode. If the camera works there, a downloaded app is clashing.

Avoid Clear data for the Camera app unless advised, as it resets camera settings.

Other things to try

• If pictures are black, check there is no lens cover and that the lens glass is not cracked.
• A rattling or humming noise on the camera can mean a faulty stabiliser, so avoid shaking the phone.
• Check the camera settings for Reset settings.

Wording differs slightly by model and One UI version.

When to get more help

If the lens glass is cracked, there is moisture inside, or the camera shows a black screen after trying all the above, it needs repair. Back up your photos and ask us.