10 Handy Uses for a Cell Phone Camera

1. Parking Pass - Crowded parking lot? Identical parking garage levels? Streets all look the same? Take a picture of the sign identifying the lot or level you parked in. If parking in an unfamiliar neighborhood or downtown area, take a picture of the street sign and nearest intersection. You can even take a picture of the building or address you parked in front of. A few landmarks can help when retracing your steps.

2. Accident Report - Don't fumble for pen and paper, take a picture of that license plate number. Visually record any damage. Snap the street name and nearest intersection. Take pictures of the weather and street conditions -- any detail that may be applicable or contributory for later reference. Whether you are a victim or eyewitness, this information can prove invaluable when sorting out the details later for law enforcement or insurance purposes.

3. Damage Control - Pictures of damage to personal property provides indisputable proof when trying to recoup losses and get things repaired. If you're a renter, you can record things like a water leak that caused your ceiling to collapse and ruin an irreplaceable photo collection. A prospective home buyer can record any items or repairs a home seller agrees to fix.

When renting a vehicle or equipment, take a picture of any prior damage such as dings or dents. If the gas tank is less than full, take a picture of the gas gauge. Don't get blamed and held liable for existing problems.

4. Date & Time - Cell phones pictures record date & time which can be accessed by selecting the picture's options or properties or information. This is invaluable for accident reports and damage control, but can also be used as a reminder. If you need to remember a certain date for later, take a relevant picture.

5. Calendar/Schedule - Most cell phones have a calendar function, but punching in appointments can be a pain in the ass especially when dealing with a small key pad. Take a picture of your desk calendar, wall calendar, online calendar, any calendar you already have the dates written in. Use your cell phone's zoom feature to zero in on a particular week or day. You can do the same with an agenda or schedule for a particular day. Rather than carry around a piece of paper, snap it and store it in your cell for instant reference.

6. Assembly Instructions - When moving something like an entertainment center or a desktop computer with a dozen peripherals, take a picture of where cables and various connections tie into before disassembly and disconnection. You will have an easy-reference guide when putting everything back together. Same thing goes when trying to fix an electronic item. Use your camera to record each step during the disassembling process and you will have a step-by-step guide that you can easily follow in reverse.

7. Shopping List - If you need a replacement part or any item that has a serial or lot number or identifying code, no need to fumble with tiny lithium batteries or shredded labels torn off paint cans. Just take a picture of it.

If someone asks you to pick up a particular item for them, and you are not sure you will remember what brand or what kind, if you have a picture, the item will be easier to spot and you can't go wrong. Conversely, you may see an item you think is right, but can't be sure. Snap a quick picture and send it to that person's cell phone for confirmation. Most cell phones today have MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) capability.

8. Scribble Pad - When you want to remember a phone number, address, or website posted on a sign or billboard or an advertisement, pen and paper are not always handy, especially if you are driving, but a cell phone camera usually is. A quick snap and you instantly have all the info.

This is a good way to streamline all those extraneous and miscellaneous bits of information by eliminating those scraps of papers, business cards, and hastily scribbled notes. Keep them filed in one spot and easy for instant recovery.

9. Screen Capture - Sometimes an error message will pop up on your computer screen with a reference number 10+ digits long. When you call tech help or try to access the Help link, the exact message and number is required. By taking a screenshot, you have it recorded in case you are unable to copy and paste the message and it eliminates typos when copying down the numbers on paper. This can be invaluable if the error causes your computer to shut down.

10. Wish List - When you see something that you like or want, take a picture of it. Details such as a book someone is reading or someone's haircut you admire is much easier to recall later at the bookstore or hair stylist when you have a visual aid. You can take pictures of certain styles or patterns to help you look for them later. If someone wants to know what to get you for your birthday or as a wedding gift, you can show them.

There are many impromptu ways to use a cell phone camera. A quick self-photo acts as a mirror to check your make-up or make sure no broccoli is stuck in your teeth. You can take a picture to quickly scan in a map or directions. Many entertainment venues will not allow cameras, but they will allow cell phones. If you've got to have a picture of your favorite artist performing. whip out that cell phone. Uses are only as endless as your imagination and need.