Capturing Hyrule: A Master Guide to Using the Camera Rune in Zelda
So, you want to immortalize your adventures across Hyrule with a snap? Taking a picture with the Camera Rune in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a straightforward process once you’ve unlocked it. Simply equip the Camera Rune using the directional pad, and then press the ‘A’ button to capture the moment. The image will then be saved to your Album on the Sheikah Slate, ready for viewing or, more importantly, use with the Hyrule Compendium.
Unlocking the Power of Photography: The Camera Rune
The Camera Rune isn’t just handed to you; you’ll need to earn it. Here’s how:
Embark on the Hateno Tech Lab Quest
Your journey begins in Hateno Village, specifically at the Hateno Ancient Tech Lab. This isn’t your average shop; it’s a hub of ancient Sheikah technology. Seek out Purah, the eccentric researcher running the lab.
Completing “Slated for Upgrades”
Purah will task you with a quest called “Slated for Upgrades”. This involves relighting the furnace outside the lab with a blue flame, a task which, once complete, grants you entry to the Lab. Once you have entered the lab, you will need to complete the quest as well as speak to Purah. She will discuss that she does not remember who you are.
Reclaiming the Camera Rune
As part of the initial quest, Purah will restore the Sheikah Slate’s basic functions, which includes adding the Camera Rune, the Hyrule Compendium, and the Album. Purah might request you take her picture in order to ensure that it is working correctly. With the Camera Rune now installed, you’re ready to become Hyrule’s premier wildlife photographer (or monster photographer, depending on your priorities).
Mastering the Camera Rune: A Step-by-Step Guide
Equipping the Camera Rune
- Access the Sheikah Slate Runes: Press the up directional button on your controller. This will bring up the rune selection screen.
- Select the Camera Rune: Use the left or right directional buttons to navigate to the Camera Rune icon (it looks like a camera, naturally).
- Confirm Your Choice: Once the Camera Rune is highlighted, release the directional pad.
Taking the Perfect Shot
- Aim Your Camera: Use the joysticks to adjust your view and frame the shot. Remember, composition matters!
- Capture the Moment: Press the ‘A’ button to take the picture. You’ll hear a satisfying click, and the image will be instantly saved to your Album.
Navigating the Album
- Access the Album: Press the ‘-‘ (minus) button to open the Purah Pad menu.
- Select the Album: Navigate to the Album icon and select it.
- Browse Your Photos: Use the directional buttons to scroll through your collection of captured memories.
Why the Camera Rune is More Than Just a Gadget
The Camera Rune isn’t just for taking scenic shots; it’s an integral part of the gameplay:
- Hyrule Compendium: As mentioned, taking pictures of creatures, monsters, weapons, and materials adds them to your Hyrule Compendium. This is essential for upgrading armor and tracking down specific items.
- Sheikah Sensor +: Once you’ve added an item to the Hyrule Compendium, you can use the Sheikah Sensor + to track down that item. This makes finding rare materials or specific enemies much easier.
- Memory Retrieval: Certain NPCs will task you with finding locations based on pictures within the Album. These quests add context to Link’s lost past and advance the main story.
- Side Quests: Numerous side quests throughout Hyrule require you to take pictures of specific objects or creatures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Camera Rune
1. How do I get the Hyrule Compendium?
The Hyrule Compendium is unlocked automatically along with the Camera Rune after completing the “Slated for Upgrades” quest at the Hateno Ancient Tech Lab.
2. Can I buy pictures for the Hyrule Compendium if I don’t want to take them myself?
Yes! After unlocking the Hyrule Compendium, you can purchase pictures from Symin at the Hateno Ancient Tech Lab. This is a helpful option for rare or difficult-to-photograph enemies and items.
3. How do I upgrade the Sheikah Sensor?
You need to get the Sheikah Sensor +. Once you have completed all the divine beasts in the main quest, return to Purah to receive the upgraded sensor.
4. How do I use the Sheikah Sensor + to track items?
Open the Hyrule Compendium, select the item you want to track, and then exit the Hyrule Compendium. The Sheikah Sensor + will now beep and guide you towards the nearest instance of that item.
5. Where can I find rare creatures to photograph?
Rare creatures can be found in specific regions of Hyrule. Consult online guides and resources for their locations. Experiment with different times of day and weather conditions, as some creatures are only active under certain circumstances.
6. What happens if my Album is full?
You can delete old pictures from your Album to make space for new ones. Remember to prioritize pictures of items and creatures you haven’t added to the Hyrule Compendium yet.
7. Can I take selfies in Breath of the Wild?
While there isn’t a dedicated selfie mode, you can use the camera to take pictures of Link by positioning him in the frame and angling the camera accordingly.
8. Is the Camera Rune available from the beginning of the game?
No, the Camera Rune is not available at the beginning of the game. You must progress through the main story and complete the “Slated for Upgrades” quest at the Hateno Ancient Tech Lab.
9. Does the quality of the picture affect anything?
No, the quality of the picture does not affect anything mechanically. As long as the subject is clearly visible, it will be added to the Hyrule Compendium.
10. How do I zoom in with the Camera Rune?
Unfortunately, the original Breath of the Wild does not offer zooming function with the camera.
11. Can I use the Camera Rune underwater?
Yes, you can use the Camera Rune underwater, allowing you to photograph aquatic creatures and submerged treasures.
12. Is there a limit to how many times I can use the Camera Rune?
No, there is no limit to how many times you can use the Camera Rune. You can take as many pictures as you want, as long as you have space in your Album.
13. How do I use the camera in Tears of the Kingdom?
In Tears of the Kingdom, the camera is not a rune, but an ability integrated into the Purah Pad. Assign it to the L button, and press the L button again to enter photo mode.
14. What are the controls for The Legend of Zelda?
The D-Pad moves Link in top-view games. The A Button swings the sword. The B Button uses the currently equipped item.
15. Why is understanding games important?
Understanding games, their mechanics, and their impact on players is crucial in today’s world. Exploring the educational aspects of gaming is a key focus of the Games Learning Society, where researchers delve into how games can be used for learning and development. You can learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master photographer in Hyrule. Happy snapping!