Camera

Some developers may require a camera user interface that is customized to the look of their application or provides special features. Creating a customized camera activity requires more code than using an intent, but it can provide a more compelling experience for your users.
The general steps for creating a custom camera interface for your application are as follows:

• Detect and Access Camera - Create code to check for the existence of cameras and request access.
• Create a Preview Class - Create a camera preview class that extends SurfaceView and implements the SurfaceHolder interface. This class previews the live images from the camera.
• Build a Preview Layout - Once you have the camera preview class, create a view layout that incorporates the preview and the user interface controls you want.
• Setup Listeners for Capture - Connect listeners for your interface controls to start image or video capture in response to user actions, such as pressing a button.
• Capture and Save Files - Setup the code for capturing pictures or videos and saving the output.
• Release the Camera - After using the camera, your application must properly release it for use by other applications.

Camera hardware is a shared resource that must be carefully managed so your application does not collide with other applications that may also want to use it.

Always check for exceptions when using Camera.open(). Failing to check for exceptions if the camera is in use or does not exist will cause your application to be shut down by the system.