How to Turn On Camera Grid Lines

Tap a device to see how to set it up.

iPhone

Go to Settings, then Camera, and turn on the "Grid" option to display grid lines on your camera screen.

Android

Open the Camera app, tap the settings (gear) icon at the top, and turn on "Grid lines." The exact location can vary slightly by manufacturer.

Why it's useful

Positioning your subject along the grid lines, known as the rule of thirds, helps you take noticeably more balanced and stable-looking photos.

Leveling your horizon

The grid also helps you spot when a horizon line or a building isn't quite straight before you take the shot.

A more stable composition, every time

A camera grid is a built-in feature that helps you apply the rule of thirds, and it makes it much easier for anyone, even someone new to photography, to consistently take better-balanced photos.

Check out the timer feature too

It's also worth knowing how to set a self-timer on your phone's camera, since it pairs naturally with using the grid to frame a shot you're standing in yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the grid lines show up in the actual photo?

No, the grid lines are only a guide shown on the camera's viewfinder screen, and they never appear in the actual saved photo.

Are there other composition aids besides the grid?

Some phone models also include a level indicator, which changes the guideline color when the camera is held perfectly horizontal.