Last Updated on December 11, 2023 by Sharon Advik
As a professional photographer, I’ve loved capturing the beauty of nature on film.
However, I’ve often struggled to capture the stunning colors and details of my subjects in low-light situations, such as at dawn or dusk.
Determined to improve my skills, I recently began researching the latest technology and techniques for low-light videography.
I was excited to put my new knowledge and the gears to the test.
Hence, I went camping in a remote wilderness area known for its breathtaking sunsets with the best DSLR camera for low-lighting video. I’ve mentioned my top picks below.
Their results were astounding.
The colors of the sky and landscape were vibrant, and the details of the trees and rocks were crisp and clear.
Which is the best DSLR camera for low-light video?
Here are my recommended top 7 Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video:-
Nikon D780: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
Whether covering daytime events or shooting videos at night with low light, Nikon is my favorite.
While shooting low-light video is challenging as it results in grainy footage with no color production, the Nikon D780 soothes all.
I can vouch for it, as I used it recently while covering a night-time indoor event.
In short, it is the best DSLR camera for light video.
Features:
- Model: Nikon D780
- Effective Megapixel: 24.5 MP
- Image sensor: (35.9 x 23.9 mm) (CMOS)
- ISO range: 100 – 51,200
- Shutter speeds: 1/8000 sec
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC
- Viewfinder: Eye-level Pentaprism Single-Lens Reflex Viewfinder
- Dimension: 143.5 x 115.5 x 76 mm
- Weight: 840g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
I found its ISO performance the best among cameras with 24MP sensors.
Even at a high ISO of 6400, the image noise was comparatively less than that of its Z-series cameras.
The camera also has a shutter speed range of 1/8000s to 30s in manual mode and a bulb mode for longer exposures.
It also has a built-in intervalometer, which I use to film time-lapse.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
The D780 has a maximum aperture of f/1.8 for the kit lens, AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, and a minimum of f/22.
The video colors remained soft whether I used a high ISO or a lower range.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
With this DSLR, you can shoot at 7fps in continuous mode.
A lower frame rate is perfect for dimly-lit settings as it will allow more light to pass through the lens, resulting in brighter footage.
Why is this camera the best?
In my opinion, the camera’s most commendable feature is its autofocus.
As it is the key to making videos, it allowed me to shoot effortlessly, even at night.
Its broad dynamic range is excellent for landscape videos as well.
The camera’s body is very well-built and is weather-resistant too.
Conclusion:
To summarize, this versatile DSLR camera can handle low-light video well.
The camera’s full-frame sensor enabled me to shoot at high ISO levels without producing too much noise.
The camera has an IBIS system that doesn’t cause blurry vlogs and produces steady footage.
The camera has various video recording options, including 4K UHD and full HD at different frame rates.
Overall, the D780 is a solid option for low-light videography.
Canon EOS 90D: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
Once, I took this camera with me at night to capture skateboarding video shots.
Since it was a fast-action activity and I needed a suitable gadget, the EOS 90D tick-marked all the boxes to be the best DSLR camera for low-light video.
Features:
- Model: Canon EOS 90D
- Effective Megapixel: 32.5MP
- Image sensor: 22.3mm x 14.8mm CMOS
- ISO range: 100-25600
- Shutter speeds: 30-1/8000 sec
- Storage: SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
- LCD: 7.7cm (3.0″) 3:2 Clear View II TFT
- Dimension: 140.7 x 104.8 x 76.8mm
- Weight: 701g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
The brand has eliminated the few minor tweaks that the previous model had.
Mostly, it is similar to the 80D, but when it comes to ISO and shutter speed, there is a slight change in image quality.
It has a wide ISO range of 100-25600.
Even at ISO 6400, the video shots were smooth.
The camera also has a fast shutter speed range of 1/8000 sec to 30 sec.
It is the reason behind capturing fast-moving subjects with sharpness and freezing motion.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
After bringing the shutter down to 1/8th of a second so that the movement of the skater’s body is synced up with the sunset behind them, I used an aperture of f/3.5 to let in more light and created a shallower depth of field.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
Its low-light utilities never let me face issues while shooting in the dark.
The fast skating scenes were captured ideally using its AWB mode for color gradience and 11 fps in continuous shooting mode.
Why is this camera the best?
One of the outstanding features of the camera is its high-resolution 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor.
This sensor captures incredibly detailed and sharp images, even in dimly lit environments.
The camera also boasts a fast autofocus system, with 45 cross-type AF points, allowing quick and precise focusing on subjects in both stills and video.
Conclusion:
The Canon EOS 90D is an excellent camera for low-light videography.
It has a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor can capture detailed images in low-light conditions.
Additionally, the camera has an expandable ISO of 51200, allowing even better low-light performance.
Its wide aperture, optimum frame rate, and high video resolution conditions make it the best option for low-light videos.
Nikon D500: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
Being a night owl, I’ve always loved hanging out with people with similar interests.
Luckily, I encountered such people and soon partied with them on a night cruise in Boston.
To keep my passion for capturing nightlife alive, I took my D500 with me as it is the best DSLR camera for low-light video.
Features:
- Model: Nikon D500
- Effective Megapixel: 28.9
- Image sensor: 23.5 mm. x 15.7 mm.
- ISO range: 100 – 51,200.
- Shutter speeds: 1/8000 sec
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC
- LCD: TFT touch-sensitive LCD with a 170° viewing angle
- Dimension: 147 x 115 x 81 mm
- Weight: 760g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
Low-light shooting conditions are not typically where a crop-sensor camera shines.
However, with the D500, this area has a major advance.
With an ISO range of 100-51,200, it captured dance movements well.
As for shutter speed, it has a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000 sec and a maximum electronic shutter speed of 1/250 sec.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
It has a maximum aperture of f/8 when using the built-in flash.
When using an external flash, the maximum aperture depends on the lens.
However, this standard aperture is adjustable according to your needs.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
Partying isn’t a sober activity, and neither is capturing it easily.
It takes the right skills, settings, and gear to make it look perfect.
This camera gives you 10 fps for continuous shooting mode, making capturing fast action in low light easy.
Why is this camera the best?
Is it the best camera for low-light videography?
I will assert this statement in most specs as its high-dynamic range with significantly less noise image makes it perfect.
It shoots in UHD 4K, due to which my videos weren’t any less than a high-end professional videographer.
Conclusion:
The Nikon D500 is a remarkable camera for shooting low-light videos.
Its high ISO range and fast autofocus allow you to shoot with sharp details even in dim scenarios.
Additionally, it has a fast, continuous shooting speed, which helps capture action and movement.
It also has a built-in flash and can be paired with an external flash for even better results.
It is an excellent option for capturing high-quality, low-light photos and videos.
Nikon D850: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
Once, I had the opportunity to cover a light show in Brisbane.
Such events only happen at night, so you must gear yourself for low-light conditions.
I’ve had previous experiences shooting in dim lighting, but this was the first of a kind.
I decided to opt for the D850 by Nikon to ensure everything goes smoothly, as most professional videographers say it is the best DSLR camera for low-light video.
Read more about it below and decide for yourself.
Features:
- Model: Nikon D850
- Effective Megapixel: 45.7 MP
- Image sensor: (35.9 x 23.9 mm) (BSI-CMOS)
- ISO range: 64-25,600 (Expandable to 102,400)
- Shutter speeds: 1/8000 sec
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II supported) + XQD
- Viewfinder: (2,359,000-dot)
- Image stabilizer: NA
- Dimension: 146 x 124 x 79 mm
- Weight: 1005g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
An ISO of 1600-3200 and a shutter speed of 1/50-1/100 seconds is a good starting point for low-light videos.
This enables a quick shutter speed to freeze motion and a reduced ISO to remove interference.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
You can set the aperture of the camera to f/7. I used an aperture, such as f/5, to seize the night full of action.
It allowed me to create a shallow depth of field as well.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
If I compare this camera to the previous models of the D-series, it has several upgraded features, including the frame rate.
It can shoot at up to 7fps in continuous mode.
It makes it simple to capture entertaining instances and expressions accurately.
Why is this camera the best?
The Nikon D850 has several unique aspects that set it apart from other cameras.
Firstly, it has a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, one of the highest resolutions in a DSLR camera.
Secondly, it can record 4K UHD videos at 30 p, making it an excellent option for videographers.
Not to forget its 153-point AF system with 99 cross-type sensors, which can track subjects with high precision and accuracy.
Since I had to capture the light show, accuracy was my priority, and it didn’t disappoint me.
Conclusion:
This DSLR camera by Nikon is an all-rounder that incorporates outstanding video quality, innovative features, and a tough body.
It’s a versatile and dependable camera that’s ideal for day and night videography.
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
A late-night stroll is always surreal; filming those calm moments is the cherry on top.
I am on such walks every other day with my best partner, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III.
Its video and picture quality in RAW format is excellent.
Its high frame rate, image sensor, and wireless features make it the best DSLR camera for low-light video.
Features:
- Model: Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
- Effective Megapixel: 20.2 MP
- Image sensor: 36 x 24 mm (CMOS)
- ISO range: 100–102400
- Shutter speeds: 30-1/8000 sec
- Storage: Dual CFexpress card slots (Type B)
- Viewfinder: Eye-level SLR type, with a pentaprism
- Dimension: 158.0 x 167.6 x 82.6mm
- Weight: 1440g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
The camera has a wide range of ISO options, from 100-102400 (expandable to 204800).
The camera also has a fast shutter speed range of 1/8000th of a second to 30 seconds.
However, you must use the perfect settings for both to make the most of this camera during low-light videos.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
It has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 for its standard lens, i.e., EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM, and a minimum f/22.
It also has various compatible lenses with varying maximum and minimum apertures.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
The camera goes up to 16 frames per second in continuous shooting mode when using the viewfinder and up to 20 frames per second when using live view and the silent shutter.
There are both auto and manual modes for balancing the color hues.
Why is this camera the best?
One of its most notable features is its high-speed autofocus system, which can quickly and accurately focus on subjects even in challenging lighting conditions.
I remember taking shots of the aesthetic, dimly lit cafe on the street, and after compiling the video, it gave a classic retro vibe.
The reason was its excellent color tones and optimum aperture that gave me the perfect exposure.
Conclusion:
It is a high-end DSLR camera that is well-suited for professional photographers.
Additionally, the camera has a high-resolution sensor and can shoot at up to 16 frames per second, making it well-suited for capturing fast-moving action.
It also has a robust build and weather sealing, making it durable if the weather gets rough.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
As a freelance professional videographer, I bagged a gig to cover an official dinner, followed by fireworks.
It wasn’t a casual event but a business meetup, so I had to prepare accordingly.
Hence, I removed the finest Canon camera, the EOS 6D Mark II, the best DSLR camera for low-light video.
Features:
- Model: Canon EOS 6D Mark II
- Effective Megapixel: 26.2 MP
- Image sensor: 35.9 x 24.0 mm CMOS
- ISO range: 100 – 40000
- Shutter speeds: 30-1/4000 sec
- Storage: SD, SDHC, or SDXC (UHS-I) card
- Dimension: 144.0 x 110.5 x 74.8 mm
- Weight: 765 g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II works on a native ISO range of 100-40,000, with an expandable range of 50-102,400.
I advise using an ISO setting of 6400 or higher for low-light videos.
As for shutter speed, don’t forget to keep the shutter speed at double the frame rate of the video.
For enhanced stabilization, I used a tripod towards the end of the dinner to capture the fireworks nicely.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
You can use the widest aperture of f/9.3 when using the kit lens, which is a good number for low-light video recording.
It also offers a wide range of other EF lenses with different aperture options like f/1.4, f/1.8, and f/2.8, which help shoot videos in low light conditions.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
The 6D II captures Full HD video in NTSC and PAL configurations at 24p, 30p, and 60p.
However, 60 fps is only available when using the camera’s manual exposure mode, and the shutter speed is set to 1/60 second or faster.
Why is this camera the best?
This camera wins big in the video quality department. It has a maximum frame rate of 60p in full HD resolution, which is smooth and stable, and it can record videos in MP4, MOV, and H.264 formats.
However, note that low-light video recording can be challenging, and the final results may require editing and color grading to improve the quality.
Conclusion:
It is an excellent option for low-light videos as it has a wide ISO range from 100-40000, which can help you capture videos in low-light conditions.
Additionally, the camera has a full-frame sensor that helps gather more light and a DIGIC 7 image processor that helps reduce noise and improve overall image quality.
The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for easy sharing and remote control of the camera for video recording.
Canon 5D mark iv: (Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Video)
Covering business events is a high-priority task.
You’re surrounded by professionals and are pressured to cover it with an audible sound and clear video footage.
I wasn’t sure which camera to take along. So, based on my friend’s suggestion, he lent me his Canon 5D mark iv.
By the end of the daytime, I was impressed by the quality and ergonomics of this camera.
It proved him right, as he called it the best DSLR camera for low-light video.
Features:
- Model: Canon 5D mark iv
- Effective Megapixel: 30.4 MP
- Image sensor: 36 x 24 mm (CMOS)
- ISO range: 100-12800 (expandable up to 100-25600)
- Shutter speeds: 30-1/8000 sec
- Storage: 1x CompactFlash Type I (UDMA 7 compatible) 1x SD/SDHC/SDXC and UHS-I
- Viewfinder: 0.71x 3 x 21mm
- Image stabilizer: NA
- Dimension: 150.7 x 116.4 x 75.9mm
- Weight: 800g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
My friend taught me which settings would work best for low-light videography.
It was about pushing the camera to its limits and seeing if it is meant for such scenarios.
An ISO of 3200 with a shutter speed of 1/100 sec worked well to eliminate the shadow effect.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
Knowing the right settings for every event is only possible by having the best camera.
I set the aperture to f/6.3 in low-light situations to make your videos well-lit.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
This Canon camera has a maximum frame rate of 7fps.
For my video shooting, it supports 4K resolution recording up to 30 fps at 500 Mbps.
Even in dim places, I used AWB for the best color combination and precision.
Why is this camera the best?
The best part about it is the Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology that allows for smooth and accurate focusing during video recording in low light.
With a high-quality lens, the 5D Mark IV can produce excellent videos in dim events with minimal noise and good color reproduction.
Conclusion:
The Canon 5D Mark IV has an excellent low-light performance, with a native ISO range of 100-12,800 and an expanded range of 100-256,00.
The camera features a full-frame sensor and a high dynamic range, allowing me to shoot the seminar with well-exposed video shots in low-light conditions.
Additionally, it has a 61-point high-density reticular autofocus system, ensuring accurate focusing even in low-light conditions.
CONCLUSION:
Alright, guys, that concludes all the cameras we will discuss today in this article.
Do you guys have any experience with these cameras? What are your thoughts on them?
Which is your best DSLR camera for low-light video?
Is there a camera I didn’t mention in this article that you love using for low-light video?
Would you please leave your thoughts and comments below?
Related post:
Best cameras for night photography:
I am a Professional and Certified Digital Photographer born in the USA. I have been in this field of photography for 22 years, and in these years, I have used many photography lenses and Cameras, which I want to share here on this website about my experience. The idea for Bestoflens.com is to provide honest information about different Lenses and Camera products in the format of a “Best lenses for AYZ” list. I want this website to be the last destination for people to pick the best Cameras and lenses to fit their needs. You can find our unbiased reviews here on Bestoflens.