Symptoms
- Timer icon doesn't seem to start a countdown
- Photo takes immediately instead of waiting
- Countdown starts but no photo is taken at the end
- Timer setting resets after every shot
Likely causes
- CommonTimer duration not actually selected before tapping the shutterMany camera apps require selecting a timer duration each time rather than remembering the last setting.
- CommonTimer setting resets automatically after each useSome phones intentionally reset the timer to off after every photo as a default behavior.
- PossibleSoftware glitch in the camera appA temporary bug can prevent the timer countdown from completing the capture.
What to do
- Open the timer menu in the camera app and confirm a duration (like 3 or 10 seconds) is actively selected, not just viewed.
- Take the photo and watch for the on-screen countdown to confirm it's running.
- Check if the timer setting needs to be reselected before every shot on your specific phone model.
- Restart the phone and camera app if the timer still won't trigger a capture.
- Update the camera app and operating system.
When to call a pro
A repair shop isn't relevant here; this is a settings issue within the camera app.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.