Sometimes, the best moments happen at night or in not so bright settings but does that mean that you should have to miss out on capturing them with your camera? We think not!
With the best low light camera, you can capture footage and images even in dark conditions and we are here to help you pick out the perfect one
15 Cameras for Low Light Shooting: Comparison Table
They come with different features to boot. So, here’s the table of the affordable low light cameras available on the markets currently.
| Ranking | Product Name | Model Name | Focus Type |
| 1 | Canon 6D CMOS EOS 20.2 MP SLR Digital Camera | 6D | Includes Manual Focus |
| 2 | Nikon SLR D850 Digital FX-Format Camera Body | Nikon D850 | manual-and-auto |
| 3 | PANASONIC LX 10 LUMIX 4K Digital Camera | Panasonic Lumix LX10 | – |
| 4 | Sony Full-Frame a7 II Mirrorless Lens Camera | Sony A7R II | – |
| 5 | Nikon DX NIKKOR D3400 w/AF-P | Nikon D3400 | manual-and-auto |
| 6 | Nikon FX-Format D750 SLR Digital Camera | 1549 | Auto Focus |
| 7 | Sony a6500 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera | – | – |
| 8 | Canon 5D EOS Full Frame Mark | 5D | manual-and-auto |
| 9 | Nikon D7200 DSLR DX-format Camera | Nikon D7200 | Includes Manual Focus |
| 10 | Sony Full-Frame a7 III Interchangeable-Lens | Sony a7 III | – |
| 11 | Nikon DX-Format D7500 Digital SLR Body | Nikon D7500 | – |
| 12 | PANASONIC LUMIX 4K GH5 Digital Camera | Panasonic Lumix GH5 | – |
| 13 | Fujifilm X-T2 Digital Mirrorless Camera | X-T2 | – |
| 14 | Fujifilm X-T3 Digital Mirrorless Camera | X-T3 Body – Silver | – |
| 15 | Olympus Mark II OM-D E-MI Camera Body | Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II | – |
1. Canon 6D CMOS EOS 20.2 MP SLR Digital Camera
Our top pick is the Canon 6D CMOS EOS 20.2 MP SLR Digital Camera. The most outstanding feature about this camera is that it can focus even in extremely low light conditions. This all thanks to the trump 6D’s card.
What’s more, this camera is constructed around an advanced CMOS sensor that provides a pixel of 20.2 MP, which is greater than Sony A99 and Nikon D600.
Product Description
The 20.2-megapixel high resolution ensures you capture superior quality images. Moving on, there is the canon full frame cutting-edge CMOS sensor technology that enables detailed and sharp images.
Gapless microlens array, noise reduction circuitry, and photodiode build on the CMOS help to keep image data clear and clean event at long exposures and higher ISO settings. This means your photographic vision will not be compromised.
A smartphone app, EOS remote uses the EOS Wi-Fi abilities, allows users to download and browse images, adjust focus, snap a photo, and even change shooting modes. Besides that, superb precision, high sensitivity in-built GPs, allow you to tag photos with GPS coordinates, locate route traveled, and shooting location with the logging function.
Other Features and Benefits
The EOS 6D enables ISO speed setting flexibility no matter the exposure requirements. You can use it for great outdoors during the day and also for low light environments. It captures great images in any lighting condition.
In addition, this device features an in-built Wi-Fi capability that allows it to connect to all wireless networks. This means you can quickly transfer data to your smartphone and PC and even print pictures with wireless pictBridge-enabled printers.
Pros
- Lightweight making it easy to carry
- Has an intuitive design
- Accurate and Quick AF
- Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS
Cons
- Lacks a focusing joystick
- Ni 4K video
2. Nikon SLR D850 Digital FX-Format Camera Body
The Nikon SLR D850 Digital FX-Format Camera Body is one of the best cameras in the market today. This is evident from the various positive reviews of the camera posted so far. This is a great advancement from the Nikon810.
It is an amazing photo-taking tool and device in the hands of a great photographer. Indeed, this camera has a great combination of high-speed shooting and high resolution. From its specifications, the D850 is practically ideal for any shooting situation or subject.
Product Description
This camera features a 45.7-megapixel FX-format sensor that was not seen in the previous model. Like most Nikon models, the D850 lacks a low pass filter
This means there might be fine textures and patterns theoretically at risk, but the result is a very sharp detail rendition.
Besides that, the sensor has gapless micro-lenses that have an advanced back-illuminated design, which helps in increasing light-gathering abilities. Also, it has a reversed sensor layout, and the wiring is at the back of light receptors to prevent light obstruction.
Other Features and Benefits
Just like the D5, Nikon uses a five image processor in the D850, which helps to attain a great continuous shooting speed. Functioning at 7fps, this camera provides a 51-frame buffer, which is quite impressive for a device with this resolution.
Also worth noting is that it has both a UHS-II SD card slot and XQD card slot to provide super quick captures for action and sports photographers. Its center point is quite sensitive to 3-EV and to 4-EV, which allows the device to focus even in low light quickly.
Autofocus modes in this camera include single-point AF, 3D color tracking, and it allows you to choose continuous focus points. When it comes to Live view, it comes with a pinpoint AF mode that eases precise focus on smaller images.
Pros
- Dual card slots
- Multiple video options
- Weather sealing
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Incredible color versatility and depth
- Buttons light up
Cons
- Slower autofocus compared to Nikon D810
- White balance levels could be more adjustable
3. PANASONIC LX 10 LUMIX 4K Digital Camera
Next up is the PANASONIC LX 10 LUMIX 4K Digital Camera. This device has a premium feel and features superior quality design and construction. Aimed at photography, the enthusiast, thus, LX 10 features a great aperture control ring at the lens.
In addition, it is fitted with a control ring that can also act as a focus ring. Both the rear dial’s and control ring default functions constantly change depending on the camera’s shooting mode. However, you can customize it to have control over settings, including photo style, Zoom, and More.
Product Description
You can describe this camera’s body as a ‘seamless metal body’ since its dials and rings are built from knurled aluminum. The top deck of this tool has a well-organized and clean layout. The in-built optic features an 8-26.44mm focal length, which offers an equivalent focal length of 35mm.
Its lens has a super-fast aperture at 72mm and is still great at minimum aperture of 24mm. On top of that, Lumix LX 10 creates a high-quality bokeh, all thanks to the advanced lens mold technology used in this device.
Though it lacks an inbuilt ND filter, the camera features an electronic shutter that has a top speed of 16000 seconds. If you are a macro shooter, then you might be impressed by the fact that this Panasonic camera has a (1.2) focus at the end of the lens.
Other Features and Benefits
It uses a Panasonic lightspeed AF system that offers great autofocus. In addition, Panasonic LX 10 utilizes a unique post focus mode that uses focus bracketing and 4K video together to stack and shoot a burst of photos into a single photo.
Though the resulting photo only has 8MP resolution, this feature offers the shooter unmatched flexibility. Another notable feature is that it has inbuilt Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to transfer images to compatible smartphones and PC without a physical connection.
Pros
- Great image quality
- Fact inbuilt lens
- 4K photo and UHD recording
- Excellent user interface and touchscreen
Cons
- Lacks an inbuilt electronic viewfinder
- Shallow buffer depth
4. Sony Full-Frame a7 II Interchangeable Mirrorless Lens Camera
The next camera to earn a spot on this list is the Sony Full-Frame a7 II Interchangeable Mirrorless Len Camera. This camera is ideal for those who want an inexpensive option.
Though well priced, the device is fitted with high-quality features to give you a great shooting experience. To get a better understanding of this camera, check out the review below.
Product Description
To start with, this device has an advanced and better processing system and sensor. On top of that, it is fitted with a great algorithm for extremely fast autofocusing speed. The fast and enhanced auto-focusing mechanism comes with phase detection and contrast-detection points.
Other Features and Benefits
Also worth noting is that this tool has an E-mount though it is not suitable for a full-frame camera. On top of that, this device has a deep grip at the top, which is extremely comfortable for all hand sizes.
Though this device does not have the best battery charger, it comes with a cable that can be plugged directly into your camera.
Pros
- Great price
- Excellent low light camera
- Incredible image quality and dynamic range
- Full frame
Cons
- Lacks an-all round flip screen
5. Nikon DX NIKKOR D3400 w/AF-P
Moving forward, we have Nikon DX NIKKOR D3400 w/AF-P. It comes at a budget-friendly price and is equipped with incredible features that meet the standards of professional photographers. With the priority of sleek and lightweight design, this device works incredibly for photography enthusiasts.
Product Description
Another notable feature is that the D3400 has a dual pixel AF, which is exceptionally essential for video shooting since it provides a precise and smooth focus tracking. In addition to that, it is quite helpful when taking stills through view mode.
Finally, this feature helps to enhance the camera’s speed and in boosting the focus of the camera lens on the subject.
Other Features and Benefits
Its focusing performance makes it excellent for capturing stills. However, its focusing performance is not as good as that of Nikon D750 since it is relatively inconsistent. That said, its manual focusing when recording is still great.
Pros
- Excellent image quality
- Compact camera body
- Quick startup
- Great print quality
- Outstanding battery life
- Low shatter lag
Cons
- Lacks AE bracketing support
- Weaker flash
- No inbuilt Wi-Fi
6. Nikon FX-Format D750 SLR Digital Camera
Another great option is the Nikon FX-Format D750 SLR Digital Camera. This might be a great choice for photographers who like switching between stills and videos without missing a moment. With incredible features, this tool brings dazzling image quality, cinematic video capability, and beautiful designs.
Product Description
This Nikon D750 looks like an advanced version of Nikon D610 since they basically have the same color scheme, but this model is an advancement from the Nikon D700. There is a button on the camera’s front for lean release, bracketing, and programmed function.
Like other Nikon cameras, this one has the AF/MF located at the bottom with an autofocus button mode. One of the greatest features with the Nikon D750 lens is that the auto-focusing system is very sensitive, which allows it to achieve precise and sharp images even in very low light.
Then there are the dials that help in switching on the camera and changing the shooting mode. You can tilt the screen, which is great when shooting video from the hip and when taking pictures from overhead.
Besides that, the camera’s system allows customizability and flexibility without moving the composition and subject.
However, the Nikon D750 does not cover a wide frame area, and it does not have a live AF view for images and video since it uses a slower contrast AF detect.
Other Features and Benefits
You can use the buttons on the camera’s left side to change ISO and for white balance. Besides that, users can access microphone jack, mini HDMI and a head port. This device’s body is constructed with sturdy plastic, which can be a downer for users who like casings with a magnesium construction.
The good news is it is quite sturdy and does not feel like a toy. Besides, it has rear plates that are made from carbon front plate and magnesium. No need to be bothered by the plastic body since the camera’s body has a leather covering, which makes it super soft and comfortable to hold.
With the wide ISO 24 MP sensors, this D750 is suitable for a wedding photographer and studio work. When it comes to image resolution, it might not be the best, but it contains enough megapixels for taking precise, smooth, and sharp images.
Pros
- Inbuilt Wi-Fi
- Great image quality
- Active D-lighting
- Thin body design
- Dual Card slots
Cons
- Metering is a bit off
7. Sony a6500 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera
The Sony a6500 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera is a great camera that offers superb autofocus and excellent image quality. This camera is an advancement from its predecessor, the Sony a6300. Though they have similar features, the a6500 has a greater stabilization and processing chip that allow more complex and faster processing.
Product Description
This camera has the same stellar image sensor and hybrid focus system as the a6300. It is lightweight and has a small size, which makes it ideal for photographers who enjoy hiking or traveling with a lightweight kit. It weighs just one pound without the lens.
It is one of the rare mirrorless devices to incorporate EVF and a pop-up flash in its design. This makes it perfect for attaching a wireless trigger, external microphone, or flash. It is only available in a black matte finish.
Just like the a6300, this camera properly protected against moisture and dust, and the sealing is finished when mounting FE full-frame lens.
Other Features and Benefits
You can use the touch sensitivity as a touchpad when holding the camera to your eye or as a touchscreen when triggering focus, positioning focus, and shutter. Besides that, the added processing chip offers a better response.
This offers you immediate image reviewing when taking bursts of images. The a6500 comes with a much needed Sony’s menu system, which adds color-coding and makes it easier to remember and recognize the menu’s parts.
On top of that, this device contains a higher ISO output meaning it can take cleaner and clearer images than its predecessor. With the right white balance, the a6500 this device can achieve a great JPEG. Then there is the inbuilt Wi-Fi that allows you to transfer images to your tablet or phone.
Pros
- Compact body
- Excellent feeling in your hand
- Great image quality
- Easy to use
- Fast autofocus
- Larger buffer
Cons
- No available grip
- Lacks an external charger
8. Canon 5D EOS Full Frame Mark IV SLR Digital Camera
Another canon camera on this list is the Canon 5D EOS Full Frame Mark IV SLR Digital Camera. This tool has high-quality, impressive features ideal for wedding, sport, wildlife, photographers. Let’s do an in-depth review to give you a better understanding of the camera.
Product Description
Though the canon mark IV has a similar look with its predecessor, it contains multiple upgrades such as interval timer, a touch screen, A 4k video capture, a higher resolution sensor, inbuilt GPS, Wi-Fi/NFC, and an enhanced weather sealing.
All these added features make it a digital camera that perfectly fits into the canon’s line products. In addition, this device utilizes a 6+ predecessor and has a 30.4 MP. A powerful and enhanced processor means better video and image quality. This further allows it shoots up to 7 images per second.
Also, the tool has a slot for SD cards and compact flash card for processing more information. It is constructed with magnesium alloy and polycarbonate combination, which makes it sturdy, elegant, and stylish.
Other Features and Benefits
Besides that, the Mark IV is equipped with a mirror vibration control system that reduces internal vibrations in the system. More importantly, it has multiple cams and gears for a higher resolution and better image sharpness.
Videographers will appreciate the fact that this camera can record 4k videos. When it comes to resolution, there is a great improvement on this camera. There is an extra frame rate that you can use to record HD videos.
Pros
- Great battery life
- High ISO performance
- Dual card slots
- inbuilt Wi-Fi and GPS
- 4K video
Cons
- Low light AF
9. Nikon D7200 DSLR DX-format Camera
The Nikon D7200 DSLR DX-format Camera is one of the best low-light cameras under 50 out there. It is fitted with incredible features that support high-quality images no matter the lighting condition. It has a similar look with its predecessor, the Nikon D7100. Though they have a similar look, the D7200 is fitted with several upgrades that include inbuilt Wi-Fi and a larger shooting buffer.
Product Description
With a weight of 1.5 pounds and a measurement of 3 x 4.4 x 5.3 inches, this camera has a classic SLR form factor. It feels a bit heavy in your hands, but this also provided proper balance since it has longer telephoto lenses.
Like you’d expect from a serious DSLR, this camera’s body has multiple controls that allow you to adjust settings quickly. On the front, you will find a programmable Fn button and preview button between the grip and lens mount. You can conveniently and rapidly activate them using your right hand.
The other side of the mount has an MF/AF toggle switch that helps in changing the autofocus mode. The top plate contains dials for controlling the shooting mode and also allows you to change the drive mode setting.
Other Features and Benefits
The D7200 features an inbuilt Wi-Fi, which is rare in most high-end SLR cameras. With this camera, you can quickly transfer videos and images to your android or iOS devices, all thanks to the wireless Nikon mobility utility app.
Another notable feature is that this device is quite easy to switch on, focus, and shoot. It does so in less than 0.4 seconds. Then there is the 1.3 x crop mode that minimizes the image size to only when you need more speed.
Speedy autofocus that tracks moving subjects is a great selling point of the D7200. It is equipped with a 51-point autofocus system for covering a great portion of the frame. The rear directional pad is a great feature that allows this device to control the autofocus point.
Pros
- Quick to turn on
- Dual SD card slots
- Crisp rear LCD
- High ISO image quality
- Inbuilt camera NFC and Wi-Fi
- Pent a prism viewfinder
- Great control Scheme
Cons
- Lack PC sync socket
- Low burst rate
10. Sony Full-Frame a7 III Interchangeable-Lens Mirrorless Camera
The Sony Full-Frame a7 III Interchangeable-Lens Mirrorless Camera is one of the best well-priced cameras in this list. Though it comes at an affordable price, the camera is equipped with impressive features. For a better understanding of this mirrorless camera, check out the review below.
Product Description
This device has a new processing system and an advanced sensor. In addition, it features a Bionx processor that is thrice faster and effective than its predecessor. What’s more, it is fitted with a super-fast focusing system because of the advance algorithm in this device.
The enhanced auto-focusing system in this the Sony a7 III comes with phase detection and contrast-detection points. It has an excellent 42.4 sensor, which allows you to take sharp and clear images.
Other Features and Benefits
One of the most outstanding qualities with this camera is that the auto-focusing system is extremely sensitive, which helps to achieve clear, sharp, and smooth images, even in low light. On top of that, this item has an E-mount but is not suitable for full-frame comers.
Also worth noting is that this device is fitted with an excellent system that can effectively and easily identify the subject’s eyes and ensure they are in precise focus. What’s more, the device is fitted with an excellent system that can track your subject’s eyes effectively, which ensures eyes are always in sharp focus. One thing we did not like about this tool is that the LCD at the back is not clearly visible when a photographer is wearing polarized glasses.
Moreover, it features 5-axis that makes it possible for you to take sharp and non-blurry photos with any lens. As if that is not enough, the Sony A7 II has two card slots, which means no need to panic if your memory card fails during shooting since you will have back up.
Pros
- Well priced
- Stylish body
- Excellent viewfinder
- Advanced AF system
- High-quality images and videos
Cons
- Limited touchscreen control
11. Nikon DX-Format D7500 Digital SLR Body
Another Nikon camera is the Nikon DX-Format D7500 Digital SLR Body. It is a great combination of innovation and high performance. This device is equipped with high quality features the professional demand from a digital camera. To know about the camera, check out the review below.
Product Description
This camera features an upgraded image resolution, energy efficiency, image processing, and ISO range. This tool uses EXPEED image processing system and 20.9 MP image sensor, which enables you to take sharp and clear videos and images.
It allows you to capture with tonality and phenomenal sharpness, even low light situations such as parties, concerts, and sporting events. Extensive weather-sealing and monocoque design allow this unit to withstand heavy use, moisture, and dust.
Deeper and a slimmer ergonomic grip help to improve stability when shooting for maximum comfort all day long. DSLRs are great when it comes to energy efficiency, and the D7500 is no exception. It can take up to 950 images on a single battery charge.
Other Features and Benefits
It features an enhanced buffer and can continuously capture approximately 100 JPEG or up to 8 frames per second. This also means you can take images continuously as the raw images are being copied to the memory card.
With the inbuilt Wi-Fi feature, you can share images immediately after taking them. You simply need to install the Nikon’s SnapBridge app to a compatible tablet or smartphone. It is most suitable for shooting group photos, self-portraits, parties, and wildlife.
The D7500 is fitted with an inbuilt flash, which adds depth, drama, and balance to your images. The in-camera scene-analysis helps in adding the proper amount of light to the subject. This camera enables you to take Ultra HD 4k videos.
Pros
- Superb sensor
- Built-in Awai-Fi
- Great autofocus system
- ISO range
- Tilt-angle Screen
Cons
- Low battery life
12. PANASONIC LUMIX 4K GH5 Digital Camera
The PANASONIC LUMIX 4K GH5 Digital Camera was released in 2017 and came as a replacement to the Panasonic GH4. With a 20.3 megapixel sensor is fitted with one of the best image stabilization mechanism. It is aimed as a competitor to Sony A7 II, Mark II, and Nikon D750.
Product Description
The color and image quality delivered by this device is incredible and is an improvement from its predecessor. It lacks an OLDF, which is beneficial in producing a robust camera. It produces sharp, detailed, and clear images considering its sensor’s size.
It can shoot 4K Ultra HD Videos at 60 fps and do not have a 2.3 x crop like its predecessor when shooting. The GH5 shoots HD 1080 up to 180 fps, and you can scale up to 4k resolution if you don’t want a quality reduction.
In addition, it can playback the slow-motion videos in the camera, so you need to transfer videos to a computer or phone for viewing. Furthermore, you can record all you want until the battery is dead or the SD card is full since the camera has no limited record time.
Other Features and Benefits
When it comes to noise performance, it is quite minimized. The camera offers ISO of 200-25,600, so photographers can shoot up to 3200 without losing any detail. What’s more, it is equipped with a 225 AF system, which is an advancement from its predecessor.
The menu’s design features a scroll slider and is touch-optimized so you can conveniently scroll through with a single finger. You will find four virtual buttons and 16 physical buttons that you can customize to 95 options.
In terms of battery performance, the Panasonic GH5 offers approximately 400 shots when fully charged. On top of that, it has a power saver mode option, just like its predecessor. Also worth noting is that this device comes with UHS-II compatible SD card slots.
Pros
- Has an inbuilt time-lapse mode
- Great battery performance
- Microphone input port
- Ergonomic design
- Completely weather and dust-sealed
Cons
- Lacks an inbuilt flash
- Camera cannot charge through USB
13. Fujifilm X-T2 Digital Mirrorless Camera
The Fujifilm X-T2 Digital Mirrorless Camera is an advancement of the company’s APS-C DSLR shaped camera. The X-TC2 is constructed around 24 MP sensors, just like the predecessor. A detailed review should give you a better understanding of the camera.
Product Description
The 24MP sensor contains 169 phase-detection points that are also on the X-pro2. In addition, this device features two extra columns for contract detention one each side of the frame. On top of that, it is fitted with revised algorithms and powerful processor along with a quicker read-out sensor that improves the speed of the camera regardless of the detection being used.
To get great results of the refined AF system, this camera uses the AF-C case-based setup system. This helps you indicate the movement types expected from the subject, which makes the device respond appropriately.
There is an F-log profile that offers flexibility and also helps in color grading. What’s more, it provides clearer and more precise 4K videos than the predecessor.
Other Features and Benefits
This mirrorless camera contains dual slots that accommodate two SD cards for excellent and reliable storage. The good thing is that both slots are UHS-II compatible for great write speeds. It is constructed with magnesium alloy.
Though it is super light, which makes it a great travel camera, it is durable and sturdy enough to withstand regular use. Another notable feature is that the body is weather-sealed, which makes it resistant to moisture and dust. With the premium LCD screen, you can tilt the X-T2 in three directions.
Tilt the camera up and down, capturing in portrait. Besides that, it has an improved continuous shooting feature that allows up to 5fps in live view mode and 11fps in a mechanical shutter. The viewfinder blackout is lesser that predecessor.
This allows you to track fast-moving subjects quickly and easily for a long time, especially during continuous shooting.
Pros
- High-quality image and videos
- Lightweight and compact
- Manual focus peaking
- Weatherproof sealing
Cons
- Short battery life
14. Fujifilm X-T3 Digital Mirrorless Camera
The upgraded version of our previously reviewed camera is this Fujifilm X-T3 Digital Mirrorless Camera. This device is popular for its tactile and atmospheric JPEGs shooting experience. Its vintage design also makes it one of the most stylish cameras on the market today.
Product Description
While relatively smaller than a DSLR, this camera is quite large for a mirrorless APS-C camera. It is superbly constructed with magnesium alloy, which gives it a sturdy feel in your hand. The tool is a sibling to the Fujifilm X-T-20.
What truly distinguishes the X-T3 from its competitors is the analog dials. They give it a tactile and fun shooting experience, which is also customizable. Also worth noting is that the X-T3 has great stimulation modes that offer you creative alternatives without going overboard.
Other Features and Benefits
This camera’s improved phase algorithm and high processing speed mean that it meters and refocuses more frequently compared to the previous model. This helps in improving autofocus, especially shooting erratic movements and sports involving situations across the frame.
The doubled face detection AF helps to maintain an accurate focus when taking pictures from the side or front. Another notable feature is that the touchscreen uses with wider viewing, higher contrast, and better functionality than previous models.
A headphone jack is featured on the camera, so all the necessary accessories for recording videos such as HDMI devices and microphones can be attached to the camera’s body for extra mobility and convenience.
Pros
- Great autofocus
- Customizable controls
- Excellent video and image quality
- Classy design
- Speedy continuous shooting
Cons
- Poor battery life
15. Olympus Mark II OM-D E-MI Camera Body
The last item on this list is the Olympus Mark II OM-D E-MI Camera Body. It is equipped with great features to offer a satisfying photographic experience. The device has an SLR style since it has an array of dials and an electronic viewfinder.
Product Description
One of the best things with this camera is that it has a deeper and more comfortable handgrip than most mirrorless cameras. This device lacks an inbuilt flash but has an LM3 flash in the box. Then there is the AF button that uses front dial when adjusting scene metering.
Other Features and Benefits
To start with, the Olympus Mark II OM-D E-MI Camera Body features an inbuilt Wi-Fi, which is no surprise as it a standard quality at this point. iOS and Android users can freely download that Olympus photo share app to transfer images wirelessly or use a tablet or phone as a remote control for the camera.
Besides that, the device uses a quad-core processor, and this is quite evident. It begins, focuses that fire in just 0.7 seconds, which is a great mark of mirrorless cameras.
Pros
- 4k Video shooting
- Weather-sealed body
- Inbuilt Wi-Fi
- Robust lens system
- Sharp and large EVF
Cons
- Pricy
- Lacks an inbuilt flash
Buying Guide for High-Quality Low Light Camera Models
You are less likely to get your hands on the best low light video camera in 2023 if you purchase the first device you come across.
It takes a bit of research and some serious considerations to get your hands on the perfect device. Some of the factors to consider include:
Video Image Quality
It is important to get a first-rate camera that is known to generate crisp images because you want your footage to be clear even in the face of low light. For that, you will require a higher camera resolution.
We recommend going for 1080p but if that is somehow impossible for whatever reason, the lowest you should go should be 720p.
Sensor Scope
Cameras soak in more light with a full-frame sensor and this is what you want when shooting in low light conditions.
Therefore, the bigger your sensor, the better.
Lens Brightness
Since you will be using your camera in dim settings, you will need a bright lens. This is because they will minimize focusing depth to make way for absorption of more light from the sensor.
Simply put, brighter lenses significantly enhance the quality of your footage.
Image Balance Coordination
Even the most advanced of cameras cannot perform optimally in the absence of a powerful balance system.
Balance is what will guarantee that you get clear footage without blur. Any time the camera detects an unexpected move, it will immediately move the lens or sensor to pay off.
This feature is put in place specifically to eliminate the effects of camera shaking which in most cases are blurry images.
How to Shoot in Low Light
We can bet you that you are going to get frustrated at some point while shooting in low light and rightfully so because darkness can be quite unforgiving.
However, that is no excuse to put out muddy, low-contrast, under saturated, and grainy video footage. This puts your reputation as a videographer or photographer on the line.
Now that you know what features to look for in a camera, it is now time to employ strategies that will help you achieve the clearest of images and footage.
Look for Additional Light
It does not take much to add more light when shooting. One of the best ways you can do this is by using an on camera video light.
This light is fixed on the camera and reflects light on your subject. Other ways you can add light include turning on overhead lights or lamps.
You can also use a mirror or reflector panel to bounce light onto your subject. The wisest thing would be to purchase a lighting kit and carry it with you always.
Go for the Largest Aperture Possible
Perhaps you have heard the terms f-stop or iris being thrown around; do not let that confuse you because they refer to the same thing and that is the camera aperture.
If your camera has this particular setting, you want to use the lowest number possible. While an iris of two is good, 1.3 is better.
The lower the iris, the bigger the aperture and this is what allows more light into your camera for brighter and clearer images.
On the other hand, if your camera has a zoom lens, you want to keep in mind that it probably will not have a constant aperture while zooming.
Actually, when you zoom in, the aperture tends to shrink and reduce the light that gets into your camera hence darkening your footage.
To remedy this, you want to keep your aperture wide open by keeping your zoom lens at a wide angle.
Reduce your Shutter Speed
A decent video camera should allow for shutter speed control. This feature plays a huge role in slowing down the shutter speed.
What this means is that the shutter is open for longer hence allowing more light into the camera.
Under normal lighting conditions, a shutter speed of about 1/60th of a second will suffice but under dim lighting, you may want to go for a speed of about 1/30th of a second.
This keeps the shutter open twice as long, allowing light to enter the camera twice as much. Of course, this will brighten your content and make it clearer.
The only downside of reduced shutter speed is that it increases the likelihood of motion blur. However, if you are using our recommended speed of 1/30th of a second, you should not experience any issues.
Decrease the Frame Rate of your Video Camera
There are video cameras that do not have this capability but since most are tape less, you can still be able to modify your video frame rate.
Actually, most video cameras aim to imitate the film look by including an option that shoots at twenty-four frames per second.
The common rate is usually thirty frames per second but since you are shooting in low light, you can change your frame rate to twenty-four instead.
The lower speed makes way for more light to get into your camera and brighten your footage and although it is a small increase, it will have a greater effect.
You can use an even lower shutter speed say six or twelve frames per second if your camera allows it. This increases the chances of brighter images and footage.
Increase Video Camera Gain
Some people refer to the video camera gain as ‘ISO’ or ‘sensitivity’ depending on the camera model or manufacturer.
However, increasing the video camera gain should be done as a last resort. This is because it is likely to have a negative impact on your content.
It adds tiny dancing flecks in your image shadow, and adds noise, which can be distracting so try to avoid it at all costs.
Note: You should only increase your video camera gain once you have applied all other strategies because of the negative effect it is likely to have on your image.
If you really have to, ensure the adjustments are gradual.
Use the Flash Function
Most cameras come with a flash function that provides additional light in dim conditions. You want to utilize this function to get clearer and brighter images.
Reduce Video Noise Using Plugins and Filters
Should you have to increase your gain, you are probably going to end up with unnecessary noise in your content.
Nevertheless, you may be able to edit the footage using a plugin or filter. You can purchase these to improve your footage but the results will not be as impressive as if you had shot a noise-free video from the beginning.
Use a Digital SLR Camera in Low Light Conditions
Presently, digital SLR cameras are great for capturing footage in dim conditions. We can confidently say that they are perfect for low light shooting.
So, why do we say this?
- They allow you to control the shutter speed.
- They allow different uses of lenses with wide-open apertures.
- They allow for sensitivity increase without adding as much noise as other video cameras.
- They allow for greater control of the frame rate.
Most digital SLR cameras come with a huge chip that allows the camera to absorb more light for each frame.
This chip is what allows for gain increase and reduces video noise. This far, SLR digital cameras are the recommended tools for shooting in limited light.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This is a somewhat complex topic especially for beginners. As such, we expect many questions that we are ready to answer.
However, since we cannot address all of them here, we have answered a few that can help you get a better idea.
What is the best video camera for low light conditions?
There are numerous cameras in the market that work well under dim conditions and this makes selecting one as the best a problem.
You want to look out for features such as lens brightness and sensor scope to guide your buying decision.
Nonetheless, digital SLR cameras have been proven the best to shoot in low light conditions.
Is 4k better in low light?
Yes, it is. A 4k camera will adversely affect low light performance. The problem is that most cameras come with a 4K sensor that they fail to use.
Best Choice – Overall
Based on our analysis, the Canon 6D CMOS EOS 20.2 MP SLR Digital Camera is absolutely the best low light camera available. It also has an expandable ISO making it ideal for a wide range of poorly lit conditions.
Final Thoughts
It is now easier than ever to access video cameras that shoot high quality images and footage. The problem arises when it comes to shooting in low light conditions and you are likely to give up on shooting because of the frustration that comes with it.
Hopefully, one of the cameras recommended above will help make that job much easier for you.
That should not worry you though because we have put together this guide precisely for that reason. If you follow it to the letter, we can assure you of bright, clear content regardless of the lighting conditions.