Camera360, a alternative camera app, which has previously found some popularity on Android and iOS, is now available on Windows Phone 8. The UI moves away from Windows Phone standard look and feel, offering a SLR inspired on-screen COMPASS (dial) to switch between different modes (portrait, landscape, macro etc.), as well as controls for exposure, front/rear camera and flash.

Camera360 also offers easy access to a number of filters and frames, which are applied "live" to the viewfinder so that you can see immediate results. Different frame can be applied by tapping a button in the bottom right hand corner of the scree, and you switch between different filters by swiping across the screen when in an appropriate mode (i.e. anything but automatic mode).

Both the camera controls and the applying of filters and frames give Camera360 a more creative feel that the built in camera app. As such, the app is best suited to those looking to spice up quick photo capture with the intent of sharing with friends via social media, rather than serious photographers.

Continuing the replacement theme Camera360 also has its own built in gallery functionality, providing an alternative to the Photos+Videos Hub. Photos are presented either in a diary view (a long strip, sorted by time and date) or a calendar view (thumbnails sorted by date). From the gallery you can opt to edit (apply filters) and share photos to various social networking services.

Again the user interface takes a different approach, but in this case it does feel a little more out of place. It is not an unattractive alternative, but whereas the camera seems a reasonable area in which to innovate, there's less of a reason to do so when browsing / viewing photos.

Windows Phone Store description:

Camera360 for WP8 is developed by Camera360 group and now it is the most worth expecting camera app on Windows Phone 8. Camera360 for WP8 comes out in a creative way. With COMPASS inspired by that of SLR, natural effects, smart UE, powerful features, and ‘Less is more’ concept existing in each details, Camera360 for WP8 aims at being the best camera app for every Window Phone 8 addictive.

Camera360 is a free download from the Windows Phone Store.