Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 remains one of the most popular mid-range devices, thanks in large part to its combination of performance and photography capabilities. Despite the release of newer models, the 13-megapixel module of the main camera is still capable of taking quality pictures if you approach them correctly. Standard settings set by the manufacturer are often focused on the average user, which does not allow you to unleash the full potential of optics.
Competent software configuration allows you to significantly improve the detail, color reproduction and operation of image processing algorithms. In this article, we will discuss in detail the hidden menu functions, calibration methods and additional tools for owners of Redmi Note 4.
Before you go to complex manipulations, you need to make sure that the device is ready, check the purity of the lens, as even microscopic contamination can create a fog effect on the images, and also make sure that the display has a protective film that does not overlap the lens area, which is a common problem when repairing or replacing glass.
Basic setting of shooting parameters
The standard camera application interface in the MIUI shell offers a wide range of settings available through the menu in the upper right corner. The first thing you should do is activate the framing grid, which helps you follow the rule of thirds and align your horizon. This is the basic composition tool available via the Settings → Grid path.
The camera can be set to 16:9 by default, which is convenient for viewing on the screen, but cuts off the useful area of the matrix. To get maximum quality, switch to 4:3 mode using the entire sensor. In the settings, you should also include the “Portuguese Improvements” function (if available in your version of MIUI) or similar options for processing faces.
Keep in mind that geodata saving settings. If you travel a lot and like to sort your photos by location, turn on GPS tagging. However, remember that constantly running the navigator in the background can consume battery power faster. You can turn this feature off in Settings → Save geodata.
💡
For night shooting on Redmi Note 4 always use a tripod or a stop, as the matrix requires a long shutter speed to capture light.
Use of Manual Mode (Pro)
Pro mode provides access to manual control of the main exposure parameters. It is an indispensable tool for shooting in difficult lighting conditions, where the smartphone's automation is mistaken. Here you can independently adjust ISO, shutter speed, white balance and focal length.
Parameter ISO It's responsible for the sensitivity of the matrix to light (ISO 100) to avoid digital noise, indoor or evening shooting, increase ISO It is inevitable, but on the Redmi Note 4 it is better not to exceed the value of 800, otherwise the image quality is markedly degraded.
- 📸 Shutter speed (S): adjusts the opening time of the shutter; short values freeze movement, long values blur it.
- 🎨 White balance (WB): allows you to adjust the color temperature, removing yellowness from lamps or blue from the shade.
- 🔍 Focus (MF): switches the lens to manual focus mode, which is useful for macro photography.
Power users often use manual focusing to create an infinity effect when shooting stars or moonlight. Auto focus in such conditions often "walks" and can't object. Switching to MF mode and pulling the slider to the end, you are guaranteed to get sharp points in the sky.
The secret of macro photography
Customize video quality and stabilization
Video recording on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 has its own peculiarities: the basic resolution is 1080p at 30 frames per second. It is important to understand that optical stabilization (OIS) in this model is not, so software stabilization (EIS) plays a key role, but it is not available in all modes and resolutions.
For dynamic scenes, such as running children or sports, it is recommended to use Sport mode or increase the shutter speed in manual mode to avoid lubrication. However, in low light this will lead to darkening of the video, in such cases it is better to sacrifice smoothness and reduce the requirements for sharpness of movement.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Impact on outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Permission | 1920x1080 (Full HD) | Optimal balance of file quality and size |
| Footage per second | 30 fps | Standard smoothness, better for weak light |
| Bitreit | High (in Pro mode) | Fewer compression artifacts when moving |
| Format | MP4 / H.264 | Maximum compatibility with players |
If you're planning to edit a video on a computer, it makes sense to shoot as much bitrate as possible, which will give you more freedom when you color correct it, but for quick social media posting, standard settings will be enough and save space on the drive.
💡
Video quality is directly dependent on lighting; if you don’t have enough light, the Redmi Note 4 reduces detail, so try to use additional light sources.
Working with HDR and scenes
HDR (High Dynamic Range) is one of the most useful tools in the smartphone’s arsenal: It takes multiple exposure shots and combines them into one, pulling details from shadows and lights. On the Redmi Note 4, this mode is especially effective when shooting landscapes with bright sky or counterlight.
⚠️ Attention: In active mode HDR Do not move your phone while shooting, as the process takes a fraction of a second longer than usual.
Automatic scene mode (AI Camera in new firmware or simply "Scene") tries to determine whether you are shooting food, documents, greens or animals. Algorithms can be aggressive, oversaturating colors. If you want naturalness, you better turn off automatic scene improvement in settings or choose "Normal" mode manually.
There's a mode for document shooting that aligns perspective and increases contrast, so you don't have to look for a straight angle, activate it through the mode menu, swipe your finger over the bottom dashboard.
- 📄 Documents: removes shadows and aligns the plane of the sheet.
Focusing Problems and Their Solutions
One common user complaint is that you don't have autofocus or you're constantly defocusing. Often the problem isn't the hardware, but the software failure or contamination. First of all, wipe the camera with a soft cloth. If that doesn't work, try clearing the camera app data through the Android settings menu: Settings → Apps → Camera → Clear the data.
In some cases, calibrating the focus through an engineering menu helps, but it requires caution: Entering the engineering menu is through a set of code in the call, however, it is safer for ordinary users to use third-party applications to test the camera, which can forcibly recalibrate the focus module.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to disassemble the camera module for "wiping" the internal lenses if you do not have experience. You can damage the plumes or add dust, which will completely spoil the pictures.
If the camera is focused on infinity and can't see objects up close, the focus drive mechanism (VCM) may be damaged, in which case the software methods are powerless, and a replacement of the camera module is required, and it's also worth checking if there is a third-party application installed that conflicts with access to the camera.
☑️ Diagnostics of camera problems
Third-party applications for improving photos
The standard app doesn’t always meet the needs of advanced users. Installing alternative software like Google Camera (GCam) can do wonders with the Redmi Note 4 matrix. GCam ports often offer improved HDR+ and Night Sight algorithms that far outperform stock ones.
To install GCam, you need to find a version that is compatible with the Snapdragon 625 processor. There are no universal versions, so you will have to find the right one by trial and error. APK-After installation, it is recommended to download the configuration file (XML), Created specifically for your model to reveal all settings.
Another powerful tool is the Open Camera app, which is completely free, open source, and allows you to fine-tune the bitrate of video, connect external microphones, and use volume buttons for zoom, which is a great choice for those who need complete control over the process of shooting without advertising and unnecessary features.