Move further away portrait mode

With iPhone XR and iPhone SE (2nd generation), the rear-facing camera must detect a person's face to take a Portrait mode photo. All other portrait mode capable iPhones do not have to detect a person’s face to take a portrait mode photo.

The photo below was taken with an iPhone 12 Pro Max in portrait mode when I had that iPhone model.

Axel F.

Portrait mode requires a person as the subject of the photo.

Additional information is here.

Use Portrait mode on your iPhone - Apple Support

I am not sure which method you used to restart your iPhone multiple times. I am, therefore, going to suggest the following method:

(1) Try and Force Restart your iPhone EXACTLY as shown below and see whether that resolves the issue:

• Press and quickly release Volume UP button
• Press and quickly release Volume DOWN button
• Press and Hold the SIDE button until an Apple logo appears and then release the Side button (Can take up to 20 seconds. (DO NOT release Side Button when invited to Slide Power OFF). 

(2)  If that does not help, then contact 👉 Official Apple Support OR you can always get your iPhone examined at the Apple Store 👉 Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options or at an Authorized Service Center for further diagnosis and a resolution.

Axel F.

Axel, thanks for that update! I just took a Portrait mode photo of my feet on my iPhone 14 Pro. I appreciate the correction.

Ha! I was just very hungry and wanted to post the food pic… again.

Axel F.

Mine still not working same problem on iPhone XS Max

Same issue I phone xs not captured portrait selfi camera

Hello dear staff please recover my portrait problem mov further away