Filming in low light is one of the biggest challenges of immersive video, especially in 360°, where every ray of light is dispersed through two lenses. Luckily, the Insta360 X5 is built to handle these conditions. It features 1/1.28″ sensors, a PureVideo mode powered by a triple AI chip, and processing power that delivers smooth, crisp video even in dim lighting.
In this article, you will discover the ideal settings , on-board technologies, tips and even comparative examples to obtain quality images, even after sunset.
Understanding the challenges of low light in 360° video
360° video in low-light environments poses several challenges:
- 🎯 High digital noise : stray pixels appear in dark areas
- 🔍 Lack of sharpness : loss of detail in textures and faces
- 🌗 Contrasts too strong : overexposure of bright areas, blocked black in the shadows
- ⚖️ Exposure instability : the camera struggles to balance rapid light variations (headlights, streetlights, etc.)
These issues can ruin a video if you don’t have good equipment… or the right settings.
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The role of PureVideo and the triple AI chip
The Insta360 X5 ‘s PureVideo mode is a true ally in the dark. It relies on three AI processors capable of analyzing each frame in real time.
Here’s what they improve:
- 🔇 Intelligent noise reduction , without blurring details
- 💡 Automatic frame-by-frame exposure optimization
- 🎨 Restoration of natural colors even in the dark
This means you can film a scene with little or no light without the rendering becoming unusable.
The best settings for filming in low light
To maximize your X5’s nighttime performance, here are the settings we recommend:
🎥 Resolution and frame rate
- 5.7K at 60 fps : ideal for capturing more light per frame
- 8K : possible in semi-lit environments, but more sensitive to noise (incompatible with PureVideo mode)
⚙️ Capture mode
- Enable PureVideo : essential for very dark scenes
🌙 ISO (light sensitivity)
- In auto mode capped at 1600 ISO : good balance between brightness and noise control
- Manual : ISO 400 to 800 recommended if using a tripod or point lighting
🎨 White balance
- In manual mode , set a temperature around 3200K for urban lights, up to 4500K for a more neutral atmosphere
- In auto , the X5 does a good job, but can vary between shots
🌀 FlowState Stabilization
- Active : even in low light, stabilization remains smooth and natural
📦 Recording format
- Insp + LRV : to maintain optimal quality and compatibility with Insta360 Studio
Before/After Comparison with and without PureVideo
To really visualize the impact of PureVideo, we filmed scenes in a lit city center:
- Without PureVideo : very present digital noise, grainy faces, lit areas too white
- With PureVideo : controlled contrast, details visible even in the shadows, fewer artifacts
Indoors, in a candlelit living room, the difference is even more noticeable. PureVideo makes the image usable where standard mode completely fails.
Accessories and tips to improve your night videos
Beyond the settings, some accessories can save you in tricky situations:
- 🔦 Compact LED lamp : adds a soft source outside the field
- 📸 Tripod : avoids unwanted movements and reduces blur
- 🧼 Microfiber cloth : cleans lenses to prevent light halos
- 💻 Post-production editing : with Insta360 Studio or DaVinci Resolve, correct colors and refine sharpness
- ⚡ Full battery : AI processing consumes more power, always leave charged
Tame the night: the power of the X5 in low light
With its advanced sensors, PureVideo mode, and real-time AI processing, the Insta360 X5 sets the standard for low-light video. Whether in the city, nature, or indoors, it captures what other cameras don’t even dare.
With the right settings, you can capture sublime, cinematic, and immersive nighttime ambiances. So, ready to tame the darkness with your X5? 🌌
❓ FAQ – Filming in low light with the Insta360 X5
Does the Insta360 X5 perform well in low light?
Yes, it’s designed for that. Thanks to its 1/1.28″ sensors, PureVideo mode, and triple AI chip, it delivers excellent quality even in very dark environments.
What is PureVideo mode?
This is a mode dedicated to low-light conditions. It automatically improves exposure, reduces digital noise, and optimizes colors using real-time AI processing.
Can I film in 8K at night with the X5?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. PureVideo mode isn’t available in 8K, and digital noise is more noticeable. Prefer 5.7K at 60 fps for better light sensitivity.
What ISO should I use at night?
In auto, the ISO goes up to 1600. In manual, stay between 400 and 800 if possible, especially if you are using a tripod or a secondary light source.
What accessories can enhance my night videos?
A small LED light, a stable tripod, a well-charged battery and a cloth to keep the lenses clean are essential allies in low light.
Can you easily edit videos shot at night?
Yes, with Insta360 Studio or software like DaVinci Resolve, you can adjust colors, further reduce noise, and achieve a cinematic look.
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