Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
Many people are unaware of how enjoyable it can be to play with the features of Google Photos. I, too, was once in that category. For a long time, I simply used it as my default photo library app, assuming it was just another tool for Google to manage my life. The Memories notifications even annoyed me for a while. I felt like I was getting enough notifications without this photo storage app bothering me about something.
But when I finally clicked on one of the notifications, I was pleasantly surprised. Memories reminded me of good times gone by, lifting my spirits. This led me to explore the app further, discovering a plethora of editing, customization, and creation options.
Some of these Google Photos features are too good to go unnoticed, so I will share my top 10 with you. Here are my favorite Google Photos features:
1. Pinch to zoom your library: Instead of tapping the three vertical dots in the top right corner of the library screen, you can simply pinch a photo to zoom in or out, adjusting the image previews on the screen.
2. Double-tap to start a search quickly: Save time by double-tapping the search button to quickly start a search without having to manually enter a query.
3. Drag to select multiple images: Quickly select multiple images by tapping and holding the first image and dragging your finger across the other image previews.
4. Sort by location: Use the Collections tab to view photos based on the location they were taken, making it easier to find trip photos and explore a heat map overlay of your photo locations.
5. Quickly find documents: Use the Documents folder in the Collections tab to easily locate documents you have photographed in the past.
6. Share photos easily: Share photos by creating albums and sharing access to them with others. You can also share your entire library with a partner.
7. Create videos, animations, and more: Use the creative options available in Google Photos to make collages, highlight videos, cinematic photos, and animations.
8. Use Lens: Utilize Lens within Google Photos to investigate objects in your photos.
9. Put a name to a face: Let Google Photos automatically tag faces in your photos, or manually add names to faces recognized by the app.
Exploring these Google Photos features can add a whole new dimension to your photo library experience. Give them a try and see how they can enhance your memories and creativity.