Serious photographers treat their lenses like prized possessions—always clean, always protected. The rest of us? We toss our iPhones in pockets, purses, backpacks… and forget that the tiny camera lens is collecting fingerprints, lint, and grime all day.
The result? Hazy, dull, or foggy photos—especially in bright light or at night. Even the best iPhone camera can’t compensate for a smudged lens.
Good news: It’s an easy fix.
Take a moment before snapping your next photo to check the lens. A quick polish with a microfiber cloth works best, but in a pinch, the edge of your cotton T-shirt will do. Just be gentle—rough fabrics or too much pressure could scratch the lens coating over time.
A few extra tips to get the most from your iPhone camera:
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Newer iPhones have multiple lenses (wide, ultra-wide, telephoto)—make sure to clean all of them.
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Keep a small microfiber cloth in your bag or wallet for quick cleanups on the go.
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Smudges are especially noticeable in low light or when using flash—they can cause glare, blur, or ghosting effects.
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Try this quick experiment: take a photo with a dirty lens, clean it, and take the same photo again. You’ll likely see a major difference in clarity and contrast.
Taking two seconds to wipe your lens could save you from wondering why your vacation photos all look foggy.
(Featured image by iStock.com/EyeEm Mobile GmbH)
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