Many drone pilots face a common issue: prosumer drones, such as the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 4, often struggle with image quality in low-light conditions due to their smaller sensor sizes. 

While this can be discouraging, there are ways to work around these limitations.

Key Tips for Nighttime Drone Video

  • Shoot Lit Subjects: The most crucial tip is to focus on subjects that are already well-lit. Examples include:
  • City lights
  • Illuminated sports venues
  • Fireworks displays

By capturing subjects with their own light sources, you can significantly reduce graininess in your footage.

2. Leverage Dusk and Dawn: A clever trick is shooting during twilight hours. 

By flying away from the sunrise or sunset, you can capture footage that appears darker. 

In post-production, you can further reduce the exposure to create a nighttime effect while maintaining better image quality.

3. Consider Auto Settings: While many photographers prefer manual settings, using full auto settings can be beneficial in certain nighttime scenarios, especially when filming dynamic subjects or in rapidly changing light conditions. 

This approach can help you adapt quickly to varying light levels, such as when subjects move in and out of streetlight coverage.

4. Altitude Matters: When shooting lit subjects at night, consider your drone’s altitude in relation to light sources. 

For instance, if streetlights are about 10 meters high, try flying at 15-20 meters to maximize available light while maintaining a good perspective.

5. Be Aware of Your Strobe Light: When flying at night, regulations often require a collision avoidance strobe light on your drone. 

While essential for safety, be aware that this light can appear in your footage, especially in foggy or hazy conditions.

6. Fireworks Considerations: If you’re planning to capture fireworks displays:

  • Always inform the fireworks operators about your drone
  • Ensure you have proper authorization
  • Remember that while fireworks will be well-lit, surrounding areas may still appear grainy.

7. Practice and Test Flights: Conducting practice and test flights before any important nighttime shoot is crucial. 

Take the time to:

  • Scout locations in advance
  • Conduct test flights to determine optimal settings and flight paths
  • Review footage on a larger screen, not just your controller or phone display

Upgrading for Better Night Performance

For those who frequently shoot at night or require higher quality, some upgrade options include:

  • DJI Mavic 3 Cine (with a 1-inch sensor)
  • DJI Inspire 3
  • Sony Airpeak (which can carry DSLR-style cameras)

However, these options come with significantly higher price tags, and many professionals prefer to stick with more affordable options due to the risk of crashes or damage.

Conclusion

For those just starting out, the best advice is simple: get out there and do it. 

Emphasis should be on progress over perfection and finding joy in flying. Whether you’re looking to monetize your skills or simply improve as a hobbyist, putting in the time and practice is key.

Nighttime drone videography presents unique challenges, but with the right techniques and plenty of practice, you can capture stunning footage even with prosumer drones. 

Remember to focus on well-lit subjects, leverage twilight hours, and always prioritize safety and regulations.

Article By:

Drone Launch Academy

Drone Launch Academy has helped over 40,000 drone pilots learn how to fly drones, pass the Part 107 Exam, and learn the skills they need to start making money with drones.

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