The Google Pixel 9a, while not as highly specced as the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro XL, is equipped with features that can potentially deliver good portraits indoors. It comes with a 48-megapixel main camera under an f/1.7 aperture lens, which supports Super Res up to 8x, similar to the mainline Pixel 9[2]. Additionally, the Pixel 9a includes AI-driven features like Best Take for better portraits and Photo Unblur, which can enhance image quality[3].
However, the Pixel 9a lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, which might affect its ability to create a natural bokeh effect compared to higher-end models like the Pixel 9 Pro XL. The Pixel 9a's ultra-wide camera is a 13-megapixel sensor with an f/2.2 aperture, which is less capable than the 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera found in the Pixel 9 series[2].
Despite these limitations, the Pixel 9a's camera benefits from Google's advanced image processing capabilities, which have historically been strong in enhancing portrait shots through software. Features like Best Take and Photo Unblur can help improve portrait quality by reducing blur and enhancing details, even in indoor conditions[3].
In terms of specific performance indoors, while detailed reviews of the Pixel 9a's indoor portrait capabilities are not yet comprehensive, its hardware and software features suggest it should perform well. The combination of a capable main camera and advanced AI-driven enhancements should allow for good exposure, color accuracy, and detail retention in indoor portraits. However, the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens might result in less effective bokeh compared to higher-end models.
Overall, the Pixel 9a is likely to produce good portraits indoors, thanks to its robust image processing and AI features, but it may not match the bokeh quality of more premium devices with dedicated telephoto lenses.
Citations:
[1] https://www.dxomark.com/google-pixel-9-camera-test/
[2] https://www.phonearena.com/reviews/google-pixel-9a-review_id7105
[3] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/the-pixel-9as-new-design-might-raise-eyebrows-but-the-price-is-right/
[4] https://www.dxomark.com/google-pixel-9-pro-xl-selfie-test/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peGjNEDn_0M
[6] https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-pixel-9as-design-google-takes-minimalism-to-the-extreme/
[7] https://amateurphotographer.com/review/google-pixel-9-pro-xl-review/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMEr8lep2Mw