If you just picked up a Pixel 9 and want to make the most of its incredible camera features, you’re in the right place. This is your go-to Pixel 9 photography cheat sheet — whether you’re shooting stars, fast-moving kids, or editing photos with AI wizardry.
The Pixel 9’s camera system is more powerful and more intelligent than ever, but only if you know where to find its secret sauce. A lot of what makes this phone a photography beast is hidden behind just the right swipe or tap. So let’s break down everything you need to know to unlock its full photo potential — without digging through menus or getting lost in the Google Photos rabbit hole.
Table of Contents
Astro Mode (Night Sight for the Universe)
Pixel 9’s Astro Mode is perfect for capturing star trails and night skies — no DSLR required.
How to use it:
- Open the Camera app
- Switch to Night Sight
- Stabilize your phone on a tripod or flat surface
- Wait a few seconds — Astro Mode auto-triggers
Tips:
- Avoid light pollution
- Use a timer to avoid shake
- Exposures can take 2–4 minutes depending on conditions
📸 This is the one mode that makes the Pixel 9 a pocket astrophotography tool.
Real Use Case: I shot the Milky Way in Yosemite using Astro Mode and it rivaled shots I took with a $1,200 mirrorless. It’s wild what the Pixel 9 can do when you give it a steady platform and 2 minutes of patience.
Action Pan (Add Motion Like a Pro)
Action Pan blurs the background while keeping your subject sharp — perfect for cars, bikes, or your dog sprinting.
How to use it:
- Open the Camera app
- Tap “Motion” mode
- Choose “Action Pan”
- Track your subject while shooting
Tips:
- Works best with side-to-side motion
- Keep your hands steady
- Practice your timing for the best effect
Pro Tip: Action Pan doesn’t need bright daylight to work. I’ve gotten great results during golden hour with my Pixel 9 tracking runners on a trail.
Long Exposure (Make Movement Look Magical)
Use this for waterfalls, moving crowds, or silky-smooth light trails.
How to use it:
- Same as Action Pan, but choose “Long Exposure”
- Capture motion-heavy scenes like rivers or traffic
Tips:
- Ideal for nighttime and low light
- Keep the phone steady or use a tripod
Why It’s Awesome: It gives your photos that “pro camera” look with zero setup — no ND filters, no manual shutter settings.
Magic Editor (Next-Level AI Editing)
This is the Pixel 9’s most talked-about AI feature — and for good reason.
What it does:
- Lets you move or resize objects
- Replaces skies
- Removes photobombers
- Automatically adjusts lighting and shadows
How to use it:
- Open Google Photos
- Tap “Edit” on any image
- Use “Magic Editor” when prompted
Tips:
- Use with restraint to keep edits realistic
- Works best on outdoor photos
- Save a copy before making changes
Example: I used Magic Editor to remove a trash can from a beach shot and move a surfer into a better spot in the frame. Took 15 seconds. No Photoshop required.
🧠 Magic Editor is like having Photoshop built into your phone — minus the learning curve.
Quick Camera Tips for Pixel 9 Owners
- Use Guides (grid lines) to compose your shots
- Tap to focus + slide to adjust exposure manually
- Use Portrait Mode for crisp subject separation
- Don’t forget Top Shot — Google auto-saves the best frame
- Clean your lens! Seriously — it makes a difference in clarity
Common Questions About Pixel 9 Photography
Q: Does Pixel 9 support RAW photography?
A: Yes! Enable it in the Camera app’s advanced settings. Great for pro editing workflows.
Q: Can I use a third-party camera app?
A: You can, but you’ll lose access to Google’s computational magic — like HDR+, Motion, and Magic Editor.
Q: How do I back up photos automatically?
A: Make sure Google Photos backup is enabled. You get unlimited storage (at reduced quality) or use your Drive space.
Final Thoughts: Pixel 9 Photography Cheat Sheet
From astrophotography to AI-powered edits, the Pixel 9 makes pro-level photography accessible to everyone. Use this Pixel 9 photography cheat sheet anytime you want to get the most out of your camera — whether you’re capturing magic in the moment or editing it afterward.
Whether you’re new to Pixel or just upgrading, these features will transform the way you shoot — and share.
Plus get amazing deals on the Google Pixel 9, right now through US Mobile.
