Your description leaves a lot to the imagination. Does the case cover the camera lens? If so, then yes, you do have to remove the phone from the case. If not, then I would say it isn't normal. You're going to have to explain the problem a little clearer.
Welcome to Android Central! What exactly happens when you try to take pictures while it's in the case? Does the camera app open, but the screen is dark? Does the camera app not open at all and give you an error? Does the phone just not turn on until you take it out of the case?