The iPhone 7 Plus was the first to feature Portrait Mode, which allows for a subject-focused photo with a blurred background. Many iPhone users, especially those with later models, wonder why their phone doesn't have this feature. However, Portrait Mode is only available on iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X, as it requires dual cameras to function. If you're using one of these models and Portrait Mode isn't working, the solutions can be found in the next section. (For more tips on using your iPhone, visit the iOS & Mac Topics section.)
Before attempting the fixes below, ensure you're using Portrait Mode on your iPhone X/8 Plus/7 Plus correctly. Also, note that Portrait Mode works best on people and still objects, so select your subject and environment carefully.
Some iPhone users experienced issues with Portrait Mode not working, which was often due to attempting to use it in low light environments, as the feature is less effective or even fails to function in such conditions.
The suitable distance between you and the subject while using Portrait Mode is at least 19 inches away. Holding your iPhone too close to the object will result in failure to capture it with the desired effect.
If you're sure you're using Portrait Mode correctly and it's still not working on your iPhone X, 8 Plus, or 7 Plus, try updating your iPhone to the latest version of iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to do this. This might resolve any issues, including Apple Pay problems in iOS 11.
If the Portrait Mode is not working on your iPhone, try performing a force restart on your device. This may resolve the issue.
For iPhone X/iPhone 8 Plus: Press the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and finally hold the Sleep/Wake button until you see the Apple logo.
For iPhone 7 Plus: To force restart your iPhone, press and hold both the Sleep/Wake button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This will shut down and restart your device.
If none of the tips above work to fix the "Portrait Mode not working" issue on your iPhone X, iPhone 8 Plus or iPhone 7 Plus, you may need to reset your iPhone to factory settings. Make sure to back up your iPhone to computer first before applying this method.
If Portrait Mode is not working on your iPhone X, iPhone 8 Plus, or iPhone 7 Plus, it may be due to a hardware issue, in which case you'll need to visit an Apple Store for assistance.