Garmin Fenix Camera Control: Complete Guide

The Garmin Fenix series represents Garmin’s flagship outdoor multisport watches, combining rugged design with advanced features. With GameraSnap, your Fenix watch becomes a powerful camera remote control for capturing perfect photos from your smartphone.

Garmin Fenix Models Compatible with GameraSnap

All modern Fenix watches with Connect IQ support can control your phone’s camera with GameraSnap:

Fenix 8 Series

  • Fenix 8 AMOLED (43mm, 47mm, 51mm) - Featuring vibrant AMOLED displays for crisp camera controls
  • Fenix 8 Solar/Dual Power (47mm, 51mm) - Extended battery life for long photography sessions

Fenix 7 Series

  • Fenix 7/7S/7X - Standard, Solar, Sapphire, and Pro editions
  • Quatix 7 series (marine versions of Fenix 7)

Fenix 6 Series

  • Fenix 6/6S/6X - All variants including Pro, Solar, and Sapphire editions
  • Fenix 6 Dual Power variants

Fenix 5 Series

  • Fenix 5/5S/5X - Including Plus editions
  • Quatix 5 (marine version of Fenix 5)

How to Control Your Camera with Fenix Watches

The Fenix series offers multiple control methods, making camera operation intuitive:

Button Controls (All Fenix Models)

  1. Open GameraSnap on your Fenix watch using the menu button
  2. Use the top-right button to take photos
  3. Use the bottom-right button to toggle settings
  4. Hold bottom-right button to switch camera modes

Touchscreen Controls (Fenix 7, 8 and some 6 models)

  1. Tap the center of the screen to take a photo
  2. Swipe down to access settings menu
  3. Swipe left/right to switch between photo and video modes
  4. Pinch to zoom (on supported models)

Special Features for Fenix Series

GameraSnap is optimized to take advantage of the unique capabilities of Fenix watches:

  • Memory-in-Pixel (MIP) Display Optimization (Fenix 5/6/7 non-AMOLED): Special high-contrast interface for excellent outdoor visibility
  • AMOLED Display Support (Fenix 7/8 AMOLED models): Rich, colorful interface with expanded visual feedback
  • Button Mapping: Customized for the 5-button Fenix layout
  • Glove Mode: Larger tap targets for using with gloves (perfect for winter sports photography)
  • Widget Glance: Quick access through the Fenix widget system
  • Power Management: Optimized for Fenix battery preservation during extended use

Using Camera Control During Activities

Unique to the Fenix series is the ability to use GameraSnap even during recorded activities:

  1. Start your activity as normal
  2. Press and hold the “Menu” button (middle-left)
  3. Select GameraSnap from the apps list
  4. Control your camera without interrupting your activity tracking
  5. Return to your activity screen when finished

This makes it perfect for capturing action shots during hikes, runs, bike rides and other adventures.

Battery Optimization Tips for Fenix

When using your Fenix as a camera remote:

  • Lower the backlight setting for longer battery life
  • Close GameraSnap when not actively taking photos
  • For Dual Power and Solar editions, brief outdoor exposure helps maintain battery during extended photo sessions
  • Use the “Power Manager” feature to create a custom power mode for photography sessions

Download GameraSnap for Your Fenix Watch

Ready to transform your Garmin Fenix into the ultimate camera remote? Download GameraSnap now:

Download for iPhone
Download for Android
Download for Garmin

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Garmin Fenix take pictures?

While Garmin Fenix watches don't have built-in cameras, they can control your smartphone's camera using the GameraSnap app. This turns your Fenix into a remote shutter button, letting you take photos from a distance or capture group shots that include you.

How do I take photos with my Fenix 7?

To take photos with your Fenix 7: 1) Install GameraSnap on both your Fenix 7 and smartphone, 2) Open both apps and connect them via Bluetooth, 3) Position your phone for the shot, and 4) Press the top-right button on your Fenix 7 or tap the screen to take a photo. You can also use timer modes for delayed captures.

Is camera control different on Fenix 8 AMOLED vs. older models?

Yes, GameraSnap provides enhanced visual features on Fenix 8 AMOLED models, including a more detailed interface, thumbnail previews, and enhanced visual feedback. The core camera control functions work on all Fenix models, but AMOLED displays offer a more vibrant and detailed user experience.

Which Fenix models don't support camera control?

Very early Fenix models (Fenix 1, 2, 3) don't support GameraSnap as they lack Connect IQ compatibility. All Fenix models from the Fenix 5 series onward (including 5, 6, 7, and 8 series) fully support camera control through GameraSnap.

Does camera control work during activities on Fenix watches?

Yes, one of the unique advantages of using GameraSnap on Fenix watches is the ability to access it during recorded activities. While recording a hike, run, or other activity, you can press the menu button, open GameraSnap, take photos, and then return to your activity without losing tracking data.