Symptoms
- Photos have a hazy area, streak, or halo, often near lights
- Scratch visible on close inspection of the lens cover
- Effect worse with flash or bright backlighting
- Video shows the same artifact consistently
Likely causes
- CommonPhysical scratch on the lens cover glassKeys, sand, or rough surfaces in a pocket can scratch the small glass cover over the lens.
- PossibleDeep scratch reaching the lens element itselfA more severe scratch can affect the actual optical element, not just its protective cover.
What to do
- Inspect the lens closely under good light to see the scratch's size and depth.
- Clean the area first, since dirt can look like a scratch and wipes away easily.
- Test photos in different lighting to see how much the scratch affects image quality.
- Avoid over-the-counter scratch-repair kits made for eyeglasses, as they aren't designed for precision camera glass and can make things worse.
- If the scratch is only cosmetic and doesn't show in photos, you may choose to leave it alone.
- If it noticeably affects photos, ask a repair shop about replacing just the lens cover glass or the camera module.
Tools and parts
- Microfiber cloth
Camera lens cover glass or lens protectorSearch: “camera lens replacement for [your phone model]”
When to call a pro
See a repair shop if the scratch is visibly affecting photo or video quality and you want it corrected.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.