How to enable ultrawide astrophotography on Google Pixel 8 Pro

Google Pixel 8 Pro users are privileged with exclusive features that set their device apart from the rest of the Pixel lineup. One such feature is the ultrawide astrophotography, a unique capability designed to capture the mesmerizing beauty of the night sky using the ultra-wide camera of the Pixel 8 Pro.

This feature was initially introduced in 2020 with the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 but was later withdrawn. Now, with the Pixel 8 Pro, Google has reintroduced and enhanced this feature, making it available only on this premium variant.

If you are interested, then here are the steps to enable ultrawide astrophotography on your Google Pixel 8 Pro:

1. Open the Camera app: Your trusty Google Camera app already holds the key.
2. Seek darkness: Astrophotography shines in low-light. Escape city lights and find a dark haven—the darker, the better.
3. Steady your aim: Point your phone skyward and hold it like a steady telescope. A tripod is your best friend, but a stable surface works too.
4. Wait for the cue: If the darkness is profound enough, the camera will automatically switch to astrophotography mode, prompting you on the screen.
5. Zoom in (or out!): Tap the zoom buttons near the shutter. You’ll see three options:
• 0.5x: Embrace the ultrawide magic! This is your gateway to expansive astrophotography.
• 1x: The classic astrophotography experience with the standard lens.
• 2x: Telephoto zoom for close-up celestial encounters.
6. Go ultrawide: Tap the 0.5x option to unleash the power of your ultrawide lens for astrophotography.
7. Capture the cosmos: Tap the shutter and hold steady. The camera will take a long exposure, soaking in the starlight (don’t move!).
8. Marvel and save: Once the capture is complete, admire your handiwork and hit save if you’re happy with the cosmic masterpiece.

Here’s the video demonstration of the above process:

Here are some additional tips that might help you out with this feature:

Use a tripod: As mentioned earlier, a tripod is highly recommended for keeping the phone completely still during the long exposure, ensuring sharper and less blurry images.

Experiment with settings: Explore the Night Sight settings within the Camera app to adjust brightness, exposure, and other parameters to fine-tune your astrophotography shots.

Consider a remote shutter: A remote shutter can help minimize any camera shake caused by pressing the shutter button directly on the phone.

Find a clear sky: The clearer the sky, the more stars and celestial objects you’ll be able to capture. Avoid nights with excessive clouds or light pollution.

Be patient: Astrophotography takes time and experimentation. Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts don’t yield perfect results. Keep practicing and exploring different settings to capture those stunning night sky shots!

By following these simple steps and embracing additional tips, you can unlock the full potential of this remarkable feature, immortalizing the cosmos through the lens of your Pixel 8 Pro. So, venture out into the darkness, set up your Google Pixel 8 Pro, and let the ultrawide astrophotography mode transform your night sky captures into mesmerizing works of art.