Ever tried to snap a photo after sunset and ended up with a blurry, gray mess? You’re not alone. Shooting in low light is tricky, but a few easy changes can turn those dark pictures into sharp, vibrant images. Below are the most useful tricks you can try right now, no fancy gear required.
Most smartphones and modern cameras have a night mode built in. It works by taking several quick exposures and blending them into one brighter picture. Make sure the mode is turned on before you start shooting. If you’re using a DSLR, set the ISO higher (800‑1600 is a good start) and open the aperture as wide as possible (f/2.8 or lower). The wider the lens, the more light it captures, which means less blur.
Remember to keep the shutter speed fast enough to avoid camera shake. If you can, use a tripod or rest the camera on a steady surface. A good rule of thumb is to keep the shutter speed at least 1/60 of a second for handheld shots, or slower if the camera is stable.
Street lamps, neon signs, and even flashlights can become your biggest allies. Position your subject so that a light source is behind or beside them – this creates a rim of light that separates the subject from the dark background. If you have an infrared (IR) illuminator, like those used in security cameras, you can capture detail without visible light. Point the IR light at the scene and set your camera to an IR‑compatible mode for a clean, glow‑free look.
For indoor low‑light scenes, turn on any practical lights you have – bedside lamps, kitchen under‑cabinets, or a TV screen. Even a small amount of ambient light can make a huge difference, especially when the camera’s sensor can pick it up.
While you’re experimenting, check out some of our related posts such as "Do Cell Phone Cameras Have Night Vision?" and "Best Night Vision Devices for Security and Surveillance in 2025" for deeper insight on how night mode actually works and which accessories can boost your results.
Finally, don’t forget to review your shots on a larger screen. Zoom in to see if noise (grain) is creeping in. If it is, lower the ISO a bit and try to add more light instead of pushing the sensor too hard. With a bit of practice, you’ll get the hang of balancing light, exposure, and stability, and your low‑light photos will look far better than before.
Find out which Samsung smartphones have a night mode camera, their best features, tips for night shots, and key models to consider in 2025.