FxCamera

FxCamera is one of those apps you’ll want easy access to — you’re going to use it a lot. Unlike other excellent photo apps like Instagram and Picplz, FxCamera reaches beyond simple filters and offers effects that truly alter the look of your photos.

Effects include ToyCamera, Fisheye, SymmetriCam, Warhol and Normal. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but each effect contains its own customization options, such as color treatments and border overlays. The whole thing runs like a souped-up version of Apple’s Photo Booth.

However, FxCamera does have some functional drawbacks. Photo effects can’t be retroactively assigned to photos you’ve already taken. This means you have to decide on the effect before you snap the shutter, which makes getting cool shots on the fly a bit difficult. Wanna get that goofy picture of your dog just right? There’s some trial and error to be done. The app also runs independently from your phone’s standard camera, so you’ll have to switch over if you see something that just has to be Warholed.

Reviewed: May 23, 2011 | Nick Hurwitch