How to Take Stunning Low-Light Photos with a Mirrorless Camera

Explore tips for capturing jaw-dropping low-light photos with a mirrorless camera.

Summary

Discover how mirrorless cameras from Nikon, Canon and Panasonic can help achieve spectacular low-light photography in dimly-lit spaces and at night.
Key camera features to know and use for low-light photography include a large sensor size, fast image processors and high ISO setting.
We share 6 tips to help you master your low-light and night time photography, such as ‘stabilise your camera’ and ‘take advantage of autofocus technology’.

Low-light photography is one of the most challenging yet rewarding areas of photography to master. Whether you’re capturing the city skyline after sunset, the starry night sky, or the subtle glow of a candlelit dinner, using the right camera and settings is essential.

Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate photography user, we’re here to guide you on choosing the best mirrorless cameras and making the most of their features in low-light conditions. Get ready to amplify your night time photography!

Why Mirrorless Cameras are Ideal for Low-Light Photography

Mirrorless cameras have revolutionised photography, offering powerful sensors, advanced ISO capabilities, and lightning-fast processors. Their compact build, paired with cutting-edge technology, makes them a go-to choice for photographers who want exceptional results in dimly lit environments.

Key Features You Need in a Low-Light Camera

1. Larger Sensor Size

One of the most crucial factors for low-light performance is the size of the camera’s sensor. Larger sensors capture more light, resulting in brighter and more detailed images.

Take the Nikon Z6III Mirrorless Camera VOA130AA, for example. Its 24.5MP sensor not only captures high-resolution images but also allows for exceptional light collection. This is paired with an 8.0-stop in-camera image stabilisation feature, reducing blur caused by shaky hands, even at slower shutter speeds. If you’re shooting cityscapes or night portraits, this feature ensures sharp, crystal-clear photos.

DISCOVER THE NIKON Z6III

2. High ISO Performance with Minimal Noise

ISO refers to your camera’s sensitivity to light. For low-light photography, a higher ISO setting is essential. However, not all cameras perform well at high ISO levels; many introduce unwanted noise (distortion).

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera R6IIBODY stands out with its high ISO capabilities. This versatile camera handles settings up to ISO 102,400, allowing you to shoot in extremely dim conditions while retaining detail. Whether you’re photographing astrophotography scenes or a dimly lit concert, it ensures minimal graininess and excellent detail.

EXPLORE THE CANON EOS R6 MARK II

3. Fast Image Processors for Clean Results

A powerful and fast image processor enables your camera to quickly adjust and reduce noise (unwanted visual distortion), producing cleaner results in low light.

The Panasonic Lumix GH7 Mirrorless Camera DC-GH7GN excels in this department. Powered by a fast image processor, the Lumix GH7 uses a 25.2MP BSI CMOS sensor with Phase Hybrid AF (autofocus) for perfect shots in low-light scenarios. The Real-Time LUT feature enhances colour and tone, ensuring your night shots pop with vibrant accuracy.

VIEW THE PANASONIC LUMIX GH7

Lumix GH7 uses a 25.2MP BSI CMOS sensor with Phase Hybrid AF (autofocus)

6 Tips to Master Low-Light Photography with Mirrorless Cameras

1. Use the Right Lens for Low Light

Invest in lenses with a wide aperture (e.g., f/1.8 or lower). Wide apertures allow more light to hit the sensor, making them ideal for low-light situations. Pair your mirrorless camera with a prime lens (fixed focal length) to maximise your results.

2. Stabilise Your Camera

Low light often requires slower shutter speeds, which can introduce blur. Use a tripod or stabiliser for steady shots, especially in long exposure settings. If you’re on the go, mirrorless cameras with in-body stabilisation, like the Nikon Z6III, are a solid choice.

3. Adjust ISO Carefully

Start with a lower ISO setting to avoid noise, but increase it as needed for poorly lit environments. Cameras like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II make this process easier thanks to its impressive ISO handling.

4. Shoot in RAW

Low-light photos may need some post-production tweaking. Shooting in RAW format gives you greater flexibility to adjust exposure, shadows, and highlights in editing without quality loss. Thankfully, all three cameras featured in this blog support RAW format.

5. Experiment with Shutter Speed

Longer shutter speeds allow your sensor to collect more light. For example, when shooting stationary subjects like architecture or landscapes, try using a 10-second shutter speed and a tripod.

6. Leverage Your Camera’s Autofocus Technology

Many mirrorless cameras, such as the Panasonic Lumix GH7, are equipped with advanced autofocus systems like Phase Hybrid AF, ensuring precise focusing even in near-darkness.

Unlock the Potential of Your Low-Light Photography

Low-light photography doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right mirrorless camera, features, and settings, you can capture stunning images that stand out, even in the darkest environments.

If you’re looking for the perfect gear to kickstart your low-light photography experience, you need to check out the Nikon Z6III, Canon EOS R6 Mark II and Panasonic Lumix GH7. The features and functions of each camera —from large sensors to noise reduction capabilities and advanced image processors—ensure exceptional performance every time. Once you’ve discovered the perfect mirrorless camera for your needs and skill level, start capturing the magic of the night today!

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FAQs

For successful night photography, take advantage of features like a large sensor size to capture more light and minimise noise (visual distortion). Use a high ISO setting (e.g., ISO 1600 or higher, depending on your camera's performance) to increase the sensor's sensitivity to light. Use image stabilisation (either in-lens or in-body) to prevent blur from camera shake, especially when hand-holding, although a tripod is generally recommended for long distance shooting. Finally, use a longer shutter speed (from a few seconds to several minutes) to allow enough light to reach the sensor and properly expose the scene.

Yes, a bigger camera sensor is generally better for low-light photography. This is because a larger sensor has more surface area, allowing it to collect more light. With more light, the individual pixels can gather a stronger signal, leading to less noise and improved image quality at higher ISO settings.

In photography, ISO represents your camera sensor's sensitivity to light. A lower ISO (e.g., 100 or 200) means less sensitivity, producing cleaner images with less "noise" or grain, ideal for bright conditions. Conversely, a higher ISO (e.g., 1600 or 3200) increases sensitivity, allowing you to capture images in low light or use faster shutter speeds, but at the cost of introducing more digital noise. It's one of the three key elements, along with aperture and shutter speed, that controls your photo's exposure.

Yes, image stabilisation (IS) is quite helpful for night photography, particularly when shooting handheld. It reduces blur from camera shake, allowing for slower shutter speeds to capture more light and achieve sharper images in dim conditions. However, for very long exposures or astrophotography, a tripod is still essential and IS should generally be turned off to avoid potential issues.

How to Take Stunning Low-Light Photos with a Mirrorless Camera

Summary

Why Mirrorless Cameras are Ideal for Low-Light Photography