How does the OnePlus 12's Action mode work with the telephoto lens

In Action mode, the OnePlus 12 uses a faster shutter speed with higher ISO settings to freeze motion effectively, which differs from other brands like Google that use slower shutter speeds for their action shots. For instance, typical settings in this mode might include a shutter speed as fast as 1/2000 of a second combined with a high ISO (such as ISO 2500). The result is a freeze-frame style image that reduces motion blur significantly, which is crucial when tracking subjects who are moving quickly, like athletes or animals.

The telephoto lens's periscope design and 3x optical zoom allow Action mode to capture distant objects crisply rather than just digitally enlarging the subject. The hardware and software integration means the lens focuses quickly and maintains sharpness even under challenging lighting conditions. While the lens has an aperture of f/2.6, which is narrower compared to the main camera, it still performs admirably due to the sensor's high resolution and software optimization when using Action mode for freezing motion.

An additional aspect of Action mode is the support for burst shooting. This feature lets the camera capture multiple images in rapid succession, increasing the likelihood of snapping the perfect moment. The telephoto lens benefits greatly from this burst mode in Action settings, as it allows users to choose the clearest of several images where the motion has been frozen optimally.

OnePlus and its camera partner Hasselblad have specifically tuned the telephoto camera to deliver high-quality images in Action mode, setting it apart from competitors. This collaborative tuning improves color science, detail retention, and reduces noise even at higher ISO settings used during fast shutter speed captures. Even in lower light conditions, Action mode on the telephoto lens attempts to maintain quality by balancing ISO and shutter speed, although extremely dark environments remain a challenge for any smartphone camera when capturing fast action.

Moreover, the versatility of the telephoto lens in Action mode goes beyond just bringing subjects closer. It allows thoughtful composition and framing that adds more artistic control to action photography on the OnePlus 12. Users can confidently employ this mode for studio-level portraits and dynamic sports or wildlife shots without compromising sharpness or detail due to motion blur or distance.

The OnePlus 12 camera system integrates this Action mode into the phone's camera UI, accessible easily alongside other shooting modes. Users can toggle Action mode on and off quickly, and it works across the primary, ultra-wide, and telephoto cameras, allowing flexible shooting depending on subject distance and desired framing. While the mode is not offered in the master (Pro) mode, it remains an important feature for casual and enthusiast photographers looking to capture moving objects effectively without manual settings adjustments.

In summary, the OnePlus 12's Action mode with the telephoto lens is designed to freeze fast-moving subjects by combining a high-resolution 64MP sensor, a 3x optical zoom periscope lens, faster shutter speeds, high ISO, and burst shooting capability. Hasselblad's tuning enhances image quality, color, and noise control to ensure clear and sharp photos even in demanding action scenarios. This mode leverages the telephoto hardware and software to deliver standout performance for motion photography at a distance.