The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 is one of the most popular mid-range smartphones, famous for its versatile camera. But many owners do not even realize that their device is capable of taking stunning macro pictures in just one click. The macro shooting mode allows you to capture the smallest details β from the texture of flower petals to chips on the board β but by default it is often hidden or works incorrectly due to incorrect settings.
In this article, weβll not only show you how to turn on macro on the Redmi Note 9, but also reveal all the nuances from choosing the right distance to the subject to post-processing. Youβll learn why sometimes the camera refuses to focus up close, how to circumvent the limitations of the standard application and what alternative programs will give even more impressive results. And for those who want to squeeze the most out of their smartphone, we have prepared a macro table comparison with other Xiaomi flagships and a list of useful accessories.
What is macro photography and why it is needed on a smartphone
Macro survey (from buckwheat. «μακΟΟΟΒ» β Large is photographing objects from extremely close range, when their image in the picture is on a scale of 1: 1 or larger. Unlike the usual approximation (zoom), it is not magnification that matters, but the minimum focus distance. For example, a standard smartphone camera focuses from a distance of 10-15 cm, and a macro lens from 2-5 cm.
On the Redmi Note 9 macro shooting is implemented software and hardware: the main module is used at 48 MP with autofocus, but algorithms are used. MIUI It allows you to take pictures with the same detail as individual macro lenses, albeit with some limitations. For example, the depth of field will be less than that of specialized cameras, but for social networks or a hobby, this is more than enough.
- πΈ Flowers and plants: capture dew drops on leaves or pollen in a bud.
- π Jewelry: remove the ring or earrings so that the engraving and cutting of the stones are visible.
- π± Electronics: show chips on the board or connector details.
- π¨ Art: hand over the texture of the canvas or the painter's brush.
β οΈ Warning: Don't confuse macro with digital zoom! 2-5 approximationΓ It just increases the pixels, whereas the macro mode uses the optical capabilities of the lens. On the Redmi Note 9, the digital zoom to 10Γ There is, but for macro photography it is useless - it is necessary to close focus.
Hardware Check: Is there a macro shot on your Redmi Note 9?
Not all Redmi Note 9 versions support macro shooting out of the box, because there are several versions of this smartphone:
- π± Redmi Note 9 (global version, ginkgo) β macro shooting is available, but can be disabled in firmware.
- π± Redmi Note 9 Pro (joyeuse) β supports macro from 4 cm.
- π± Redmi Note 9S (curtana β similar to the Pro version.
- π± Redmi Note 9T (s 5G) β macro photography is implemented through a separate 2-MP module.
To find out the exact model, go to Settings β The phone. β Model. If you have a basic version (ginkgo), macro photography works through the main camera, and it needs to be activated manually. 9 Pro/9S/9T The mode is activated automatically when approaching the object.
| Model | Macro module | Minimum focusing distance | Permission of macroscopic images |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 9 | Main camera (48 MP) | 5-7 cm | 12 MP (binning) |
| Redmi Note 9 Pro/9S | Main camera (48 MP) + PO | 4-6 cm | 12-48 MP |
| Redmi Note 9T | Separate 2-MP macro lens | 2β4 cm | 2 MP |
| Redmi Note 10 Pro | Separate 5-MP macro lens | 2cm | 5 MP |
On the base Redmi Note 9, macro photography only works in good lighting - in the dark, autofocus will "float" due to the lack of a laser or phase sensor.If you shoot frequently indoors, consider buying a ring lamp or an external one. LED-light.
Step-by-step: how to enable macro photography in a standard camera app
If your Redmi Note 9 supports macro photography, you can activate it directly in the regular Camera app.
- Open the Camera app (the icon on the home screen or menu).
- Switch to Photo Mode (if you are in Video or Portrait).
- Bring the camera to the object at a distance of 5-7 cm on the screen will appear Macro hint or flower icon πΌ.
- Tap a hint or an icon to activate the mode. Focus will become more accurate.
- Press the shutter button, holding the smartphone still (it is better to use a tripod).
βοΈ Preparation for macro photography
If Macro's hint doesn't appear:
- π Reboot your smartphone β sometimes it glimpses image processing.
- π± Update the Camera app via Google Play.
- βοΈ Reset the camera settings: Settings β Annexes β Camera. β Warehouse β Clear the data.
β οΈ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (And in particular, Chinese macros are disabled by default, and in this case, setting up a global image will help. ROM Alternative cameras (below).
Macro Shooting Problems on Redmi Note 9 and Their Solutions
Even after the mode is turned on, users often face difficulties, and here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The camera is not focused close. | Dirty lens or close distance | Wipe the lens with a microfiber, move away 1-2 cm |
| Blurred pictures | Trembling of hands or weak lighting | Use a tripod or turn on Night Mode |
| Macro regime not appearing | Outdated firmware or disabled function | Update. MIUI Or install an alternative camera. |
| The colors in the pictures are unrealistic | Aggressive processing MIUI | Turn off AI enhancement in camera settings |
If your Redmi Note 9 stubbornly refuses to focus closer than 10cm, try the following trick:
- Turn on Pro mode in the Camera app.
- Manually set the focal length to a minimum (slider) MF).
- Hold the camera to the subject and slowly push back until sharpness appears.
π‘
To capture insects or moving objects, turn on Serial Shooting (hold the shutter button) so you increase the chances of getting a sharp shot.
Best Alternative Applications for Macro Shooting
Standard camera. MIUI It doesn't always do a great job of macro photography, especially in challenging environments. luckily there are third-party apps that will unlock the potential of your Redmi Note 9:
- πΈ Google Camera (GCam): Portrait Mode and Improved HDR They make the pictures more detailed. BSG or Urnyx05 (search the forum 4PDA).
- π Macro Camera: Specialized application with manual focus and exposure settings. RAW.
- ποΈ Open Camera: Open source, fine-tuning capability ISO Ideal for low-light shooting.
- π Focos: Allows you to change the depth of field after shooting (works only on some firmware).
To install the GCam:
- Download. APK-file from a verified source (e.g. celsoazevedo.com).
- Allow installation from unknown sources: Settings β Applications β Special Access β Install unknown applications.
- Install the file and open GCam.
- In the settings, turn on Auxiliary cameras and select the config for the Redmi Note 9.
How to set up GCam for macro photography
Comparison of the standard camera and GCam on the Redmi Note 9:
- πΉ Details: GCam saves more trifles thanks to better noise reduction algorithm.
- πΉ Colors: The standard camera often tweaks the colors, and the GCam gives a more natural palette.
- πΉ Focus: In GCam, it is easier to catch sharpness manually.
Secrets of Perfect Macro Shooting: Lighting, Composition and Post-processing
Even with the right technical settings, macros can look dull. Here are some professional tips on how to make them expressive:
1. Lighting
- π‘ Natural light: Shooting at the window in cloudy weather will give soft shadows.
- π¦ Ring lamp: Eliminates shadows from the hand and emphasizes texture.
- π Reflector: A sheet of white paper or foil will help direct light to an object.
Composition
- π― Rule of thirds: Place the object not in the center, but at the intersection of lines.
- π Shooting angles: Try shooting from the bottom or side for an unusual angle.
- πΌοΈ Background: Use monochromatic surfaces (paper, fabric) or blur the background.
3. Post-processing
To improve macro images are suitable:
- π± Snapseed: Tools Selective correction and sharpness.
- π₯οΈ Lightroom Mobile: Curve adjustment and noise removal.
- π¨ VSCO: Presets for natural color correction.
π‘
The easiest way to improve a macro image is to increase contrast by 10 to 15 percent and slightly sharpen it. Don't overdo it: overwork spoils the details!
Macro Shooting Accessories: What to Buy for Redmi Note 9
You want to take macro photography to the next level? These accessories cost you money.
| Accessory | Price (roughly) | Why do you need it? | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clip lens (macro) | 500β1500 β½ | Reduces the minimum focusing distance to 1-2 cm | Xenvo Pro Lens or Apexel |
| Mini-station | 300β800 β½ | Removes the hair when shooting from the hands | UBeesize 50 with flexible legs |
| LED-panel | 1000β3000 β½ | Uniform lighting without shadows | Neewer 10 with brightness control |
| Bluetooth remote | 200β500 β½ | Remote shutter release | Anyone with Xiaomi support |
When buying a clip lens, pay attention to the multiplicity of the increase:
- π 5Γβ10Γ: Good for shooting insects or electronics.
- π 15Γβ20Γ: Suitable for micro-objects (e.g. salt crystals), but requires perfect immobility.
β οΈ Attention: Cheap clip lenses (up to 500) β½) They often give you a lot of distortion around the edges of the frame. Before buying, read reviews with real photos taken on the Redmi Note 9.