Family and fishing photos with the Google Pixel XL

The Google Pixel XL is a simply amazing photographic device when it comes to quickly capturing the moment. The following three photos showcase some very difficult lighting scenarios which the Pixel handles with aplomb. The sky, water, and people are all in focus and well exposed with minimal blown highlights and shadow depth is retained as well.

The first two family photos have a filter applied for punchier color, the last fishing photo is straight out of the camera and is a good example of Pixel’s ability to balance a scene in a very pleasing manner. 🙂

Samantha and the kiddos

My boy fishing 🙂

It is hard to take a bad photo with the Pixel, it just does a phenomenal job in almost any situation. Way to go Google! 🙂

Tips for getting the most from your Pixel:

  • Keep the camera lens clean
  • Use Auto HDR!
  • In poor lighting, brace yourself to avoid shake

8 comments

  • Sean

    Do you have the Pixel XL Instruction Manual ?

    Do you need HDR+ all the time ?

    P.D. You are cute 😉

    • Hi Sean,
      Thank you for your comment!

      Here is the best Pixel instruction manual type resource that I could find:
      https://support.google.com/pixelphone#topic=7078250 I also checked my Pixel XL box and it has a few “getting started” type guides, but no comprehensive manual.

      As for your other question, I do recommend leaving HDR+ on or HDR+ auto on almost all the time. There might be some edge case usage scenarios where HDR+ off is appropriate but I can’t think of any off hand 😉

      Taking great photos with the Pixel is almost absurdly easy, I really love its rear facing camera!

      Please let me know if you have any other questions and have a great week!

      Best regards,
      -J.D.

  • Tahir

    I came across this article through your comment on TheVerge. The photos you have taken look absolutely great and I especially like how all the different colors pop. These photos certainly give weight to the argument that the Google Pixel currently has the best rear camera when compared to other smartphones.

    May I also say that you have a beautiful family. 🙂

    • Hi Tahir!
      Thank you kindly for your nice comment 🙂

      It is truly a wonderful time for smartphone photography and the Pixel is a pleasure to use. Rear camera performance is superb and better than any other smartphone I have used. Hopefully in the next iteration Google can improve the front camera performance by a similar degree.

      Lastly, thank you for the kind complement about my family! Have a great weekend and thanks again for commenting 🙂

      Best regards,
      -J.d.

  • Mike

    looks like a beautiful place…where is that??

    • Hi Mike,
      Thank you for your comment. The first two photos were taken at Rocky Falls. If you are ever in the area, I highly recommend checking out the falls 🙂 The last photo was taken at a nearby creek.

      Have a great week!
      -J.D.

  • Aj

    Hi, Excellent photos and with this proof I can go and buy a Pixel phone right away. BTW very cute Family.

    • Hi AJ,
      Thank you for your kind comments. I am very glad you enjoyed the photos and I hope you enjoy your newly purchased Pixel!

      Have a great Memorial Day weekend 🙂
      -J.D.

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