The Best Low Light Video Camera – 10 Picks of 2023
Table of Contents
What is a Low Light Video Camera?
A low light video camera is a type of camera that is designed to capture footage in conditions with low levels of ambient light. These cameras often have larger image sensors and lenses that can gather more light, as well as special features such as low light mode or night vision to improve their performance in dimly lit environments. Low light video cameras are commonly used for security and surveillance, as well as for recording footage in challenging lighting conditions such as at night or indoors.
What is the best Low Light Video Camera?
The best low light video camera will depend on your specific needs and budget. Some cameras that are known for their performance in low light include the Sony A7S II, Canon EOS R6, Nikon Z6, and Panasonic Lumix GH5. These cameras have large image sensors and high ISO sensitivity, allowing them to capture high-quality footage in dim conditions. Ultimately, the best low light video camera for you will depend on your specific shooting needs and budget.
10 Best Low Light Video Cameras and Camcorders
If you’re anything like us, you want your low light videos to have less to zero noise, beautiful colors, and balanced mid-tones. But we all know that achieving that isn’t a walk in the park. After all, it’s low light videography that we’re talking about. Yet, with a powerful camera, you can achieve excellent low light shots!
In this article you will find our list of the top 10 best low-light video cameras and camcorders in the market as of 2023:
#1: Sony FDRAX53/B – 4K HDR Camcorder
Most videographers and photographers complain about how most cameras today perform poorly in low light situations. But with Sony FDRAX53/B, you won’t like to have that complaint.
The Sony FDRAX53/B features a large 15.5mp Exmor R sensor equipped with smaller sensors that allow for high resolution. It also allows you to film videos at full high definition 4K quality at 24fps to 30fps.
Simply put, this camera is the best low light camcorder that you shouldn’t miss on, especially if you love filming moving, handheld shots.
#2: Panasonic LUMIX G85 – Best DSLR Camera
| Model Name | Sony a7 III |
| Brand | Sony |
| Form Factor | Mirrorless |
| Skill Level | Professional |
| Special Feature | Image-stabilization |
| Color | Black |
| JPEG quality level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
| White balance settings | Auto |
| Shooting Modes | Continuous Hi+ |
| Lens Type | Standard-zoom |
Panasonic doesn’t fail to impress us. The Panasonic LUMIX is a mirrorless camera with reliable versatility. The ISO range can go between 200 and 25600, allowing you to film videos and take pictures with insane clarity. It also doesn’t disappoint when it comes to speed.
When equipped with an electronic shutter, this camera can shoot up to 40fps at UHD 4K quality.
Post Focus Feature
This camera also comes with a post focus feature, meaning you can adjust the focus in a photo even after you have taken it.
Surely, the LUMIX G85 is one of the best low light mirrorless cameras for both videographers and still shooters.
#3: Canon EOS 90D – DSLR Camera
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51egQGBklgL._SL160_.jpg)
| Model Name | Sony a7 III |
| Brand | Sony |
| Form Factor | Mirrorless |
| Skill Level | Professional |
| Special Feature | Image-stabilization |
| Color | Black |
| JPEG quality level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
| White balance settings | Auto |
| Shooting Modes | Continuous Hi+ |
| Lens Type | Standard-zoom |
Canon EOS 90D features speed, power, and convenience—it’s the perfect camera for both amateurs and professionals. This camera does not only capture sharp low light videos, but it also allows you to connect to the internet and other devices via Bluetooth.
Wide ISO Range
It has a wide ISO range (100 to 25000) and 32mp CMOS (APS-C), you can record videos at any time of the day. You won’t have to worry about time lag, too—thanks to its 10fps continuous shooting. Plus, this camera can record footage at 4K 30p quality, so you can keep your memories vivid and colorful.
All in all, the EOS 90D is a versatile and reliable camera for demanding shoots. If you care about camera performance, then this is the best choice for you.
#4: Panasonic LUMIX GH5S – 4K Mirrorless Camera
LUMIX GH5S is one if not the best low-light video cameras we highly suggest to anyone looking for a high quality camera. When it comes to low light videography, this camera performs exceptionally well with its dual ISO on the 4K-optimized sensor. It also has bigger pixels that allow for an effortless grain reduction ability despite being in a higher ISO setting.
High Dynamic Range Feature
Moreover, this camera has a high dynamic range feature, 4:2:2 color sampling, a Vlog-L color profile, and 10-bit colors, allowing you to modify the colors after you have taken your footage.
Plus, GH5S has 4K with 10-bit internal recording, which isn’t available in other cameras.
#5: Sony A7 III – Full frame Mirrorless Camera
| Model Name | Sony a7 III |
| Brand | Sony |
| Form Factor | Mirrorless |
| Skill Level | Professional |
| Special Feature | Image-stabilization |
| Color | Black |
| JPEG quality level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
| White balance settings | Auto |
| Shooting Modes | Continuous Hi+ |
| Lens Type | Standard-zoom |
Powerful and dynamic—the best words to describe Sony A7III. It’s the best camera for events and sports videography.
While this may not be the most outstanding camera when compared to other high-priced cameras, it certainly outperforms the competition in low light conditions with higher ISO values. This is possible, thanks to its dual grain architecture that helps the sensor absorb more light at a pixel level.
Excellent Sharpness
Sony A7III also keeps your videos at excellent sharpness because of its JPEG noise reduction feature. Because of these incredible qualities, we can boldly say that Sony A7 III is one of the best low-light video cameras available today.
#6: Sony A6400 – Digital Camera
The Sony A6400 is one of the reliable cameras you can trust for shooting during the night. While it is lightweight and compact, the features are definitely for heavy-duty video shooting. And when it comes to low light videos, this camera can deliver exceptional quality shots.
Because this camera is small and lightweight, it’s perfect for anyone who loves taking photos and videos while outdoors or during travels.
The A6400 is equipped with many tools to assist you in your shoots, such as focus punch-in, focus peaking, histogram, and zebra stripes. Moreover, with the recently added A9 processor, you can use the camera for a longer time.
When recording in low light conditions, the Sony A6400 does a really good job. You can adjust the ISO level to 102,400, ensuring you get crisp low light videos whenever you film. It can also record 4K quality videos.
In a nutshell, it’s safe to say that A6400 is one of the best low-light video cameras in the market.
#7: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Digital SLR Camera
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is specially designed for still shooters. However, it doesn’t fall short when it comes to filming in low light areas. And while there are a few flaws, they don’t necessarily overpower the performance of this camera.
If you’re specific about the clarity and sharpness of your videos, then you will love the EOS 5D. This camera lets you record videos in 4K quality with its 30.4 mp full-frame sensor. You can also adjust the ISO level to 25600, giving you flexibility when filming.
Smooth Auto-Focusing
This camera also comes with Dual Pixel CMOS AF (DAF) for smooth auto-focusing. This feature comes useful when shooting fast-moving subjects, like small children, dancers, sports events, and wild animals.
Overall, the EOS 5D Mark is a must-get camera for beginners and professionals.
#8: Panasonic HC-WXF991 – 4K Video Camera Camcorder
Panasonic sure knows how to impress video enthusiasts. The HC-WXF991 model is one of the best low light camcorders you can get on the market today.
The unique night vision feature makes this camera so reliable in low light videography. This also gives you flexibility when shooting in pitch-black areas. This camera comes with three modes: 0 and 1 lux for shooting in completely dark areas, and 2 lux for recording in low light conditions.
Further, the Panasonic HC-WXF991 has LEICA Dicomar Lens with 20X optical zoom, 4K ultra-high-definition recording, and a built-in twin camera that allows for a picture-in-picture effect.
#9: Canon EOS Rebel T7i – Digital SLR Camera
Straight from the get-go, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i features a dual pixel CMOS AF that enables high-performance focus tracking. Not just that, this camera excels well at providing flexibility when filming in low light conditions. The best part is that it costs a lot cheaper than most of its competitors.
Why is it one of the best low light video cameras, you ask?
It has a massive 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor that allows for 60 fps full HD filming. You can also adjust the ISO level to 25600, enabling you to film quality shots even at gloomy days.
It’s the best budget-friendly low light video camera that you can get today. For sure, it’s one powerful camera that’s truly a bang for your buck.
#10: Canon VIXIA HF G20 – HD Camcorder
Another one in the list is the Canon VIXIA HF G20. Like other Canon video cameras in this list, the VIXIA HF G20 can do well in low light conditions because of its HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor, allowing the camera to capture more light and sharpness in your videos.
This camera also features a DIGIC DV III image processor that eliminates noise and keeps the colors in your videos vivid and realistic. Plus, it does come with a detachable lens hood for flexibility.
Need to say, the VIXIA HF G20 can compete with high-priced DSLR cameras when it comes to video shooting.
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Conclusion
We all know that filming in low light areas isn’t always easy. But with the right low light camera and lighting equipment, you should be able to shoot sharp and crisp low light videos. Of course, most importantly, the biggest factor in this is your filming skills. So aside from investing in good cameras, make sure to enhance your skills and use your devices effectively.
FAQ – Best Low Light Video Camera
What is the best f stop for low light?
The best f-stop for low light will depend on the specific conditions and your desired outcome. In general, using a wider aperture (e.g. f/1.8 or f/2.8) will allow more light to enter the camera, making it easier to shoot in low light.
However, a wider aperture can also produce a shallow depth of field, which can be desirable for certain types of shots.
If you want to maximize the amount of light entering the camera, using a wide aperture such as f/1.8 or f/2.8 will be your best bet.
However, if you want to maintain a larger depth of field and still let in plenty of light, you may want to use a slightly narrower aperture such as f/4 or f/5.6.
Ultimately, the best f-stop for low light will depend on the specific conditions and your creative vision. Experiment with different aperture settings to see which produces the best results in your specific shooting environment.
How do I shoot video in low light?
- Use a tripod: A tripod will help keep your camera steady and prevent blurry footage.
- Increase the ISO: Increasing the ISO can help your camera sensor gather more light, but be aware that it can also introduce noise into your footage.
- Use a fast lens: A lens with a large aperture (e.g. f/1.8) will let more light into the camera, making it easier to shoot in low light.
- Open the aperture: If your camera has manual controls, try opening the aperture as wide as possible to let in more light.
- Use a lens hood: A lens hood can help prevent lens flare and other distractions in your footage.
- Use a low light mode: Many cameras have a special low light mode that can be activated to improve their performance in dim conditions.
- Shoot in RAW: Shooting in RAW will give you more flexibility when editing your footage, allowing you to adjust the exposure and other settings in post-production.
- Use external lighting: If possible, try to bring in some external lighting to illuminate your subject and improve the overall quality of your footage.
Overall, shooting video in low light can be challenging, but with the right equipment and techniques, you can capture high-quality footage even in dim conditions.
What makes a camera good in low light?
There are several factors that can make a camera good in low light, including:
- Large image sensor: A larger image sensor allows a camera to gather more light, improving its performance in low light conditions.
- Wide aperture: A lens with a wide aperture (e.g. f/1.8) will let more light into the camera, making it easier to shoot in low light.
- Fast shutter speed: A fast shutter speed can help prevent blurry footage when shooting in low light.
- Low light mode: Many cameras have a special low light mode that can be activated to improve their performance in dim conditions.
- High ISO sensitivity: A camera with high ISO sensitivity can gather more light, allowing it to produce usable images and footage in low light.
- Good noise reduction: A camera with good noise reduction technology can minimize the amount of noise in low light images and footage.
Overall, a good low light camera will have a combination of these features, allowing it to perform well in challenging lighting conditions.
Which camera is best for night videography?
There are many cameras that are well-suited for night videography, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Some cameras that are known for their performance in low light include:
- Sony A7S II: The Sony A7S II is a full-frame mirrorless camera with a large image sensor and high ISO sensitivity, making it an excellent option for night videography.
- Canon EOS R6: The Canon EOS R6 is a full-frame mirrorless camera with a high-resolution sensor and fast autofocus, making it a great choice for shooting in low light.
- Nikon Z6: The Nikon Z6 is a full-frame mirrorless camera with a high ISO range and fast autofocus, making it a good option for night videography.
- Panasonic Lumix GH5: The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a micro four-thirds camera with a large image sensor and fast autofocus, making it well-suited for low light shooting.
Ultimately, the best camera for night videography will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to consider the camera’s sensor size, ISO range, and autofocus capabilities when choosing a camera for night shooting.
Also Read: The 10 Best Lenses for Capturing Breathtaking Product Photography and Videography
