Black Friday. A day of slashed prices, frantic crowds, and, let’s be honest, questionable decisions. But here at Analogue, we’re stepping away from the chaos. No discounts, no flash sales—just a focus on craftsmanship and the art of doing things the right way. This year, we’re flipping the script with The Dark Side of Black Friday: a guide to low-light photography that embraces creativity over compromise.

Whether you’re chasing moody portraits or dramatic street scenes, these tips will help you harness the shadows and elevate your skills.

For film shooters, the grain in your low-light shots isn’t just an artifact—it’s a key part of the mood and storytelling. Choosing the right film stock can make all the difference.

• High-ISO Films: Stocks like Portra 800, Cinestill 800, Candido 800, and Reflex Lab 800 excel in low-light conditions. Their higher ISO sensitivity captures detail in the shadows, delivering rich tones and beautiful contrast.
• Grain as a Feature: Rather than avoiding grain, embrace it. Think of it as an artistic element that adds texture and character to your shots. Each grain is like a brushstroke that adds depth to your story.

Pro Tip: If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with Hands On Film Midnight 1600 ISO—it’s perfect for those darker, moodier shots where even more grain can add to the atmosphere. You can also push-process these films for enhanced contrast, but remember, it will also boost the grain!

In low-light scenarios, your shutter speed defines the mood.

• Slower Speeds (1/15–1/30 sec): Ideal for capturing ambient light, these settings let you play with motion blur—perfect for busy streets or softly blurred figures. Use a tripod or steady hand for sharp stationary subjects.
• Faster Speeds (1/100+ sec): Freeze moments in crisp detail, especially when working with fast-moving subjects or handheld shots. Pair this with a wide aperture to maximize available light.Pro Tip: Use your camera’s image stabilization to push the boundaries of handheld low-light shooting.

Pro Tip: Use your camera’s image stabilization to push the boundaries of handheld low-light shooting.

When natural light isn’t enough, flashes step in—but it’s easy to overdo it.

• Bounce It: Direct flash can wash out your subject and flatten the scene. Instead, bounce light off a nearby wall or ceiling for softer, more natural results.
• Gel It: Want to add color to your low-light shots? Use gels over your flash to create mood or match ambient lighting.
• Off-Camera Flash: Detach the flash from your camera for greater control. Position it at an angle for depth and drama in portraits.

Pro Tip: Experiment with second curtain sync to freeze motion trails for a surreal, cinematic effect.

Low-light photography is about capturing the emotion of the scene, not perfecting it. Let the shadows dominate, embrace the grain, and use light sparingly. These “flaws” are what make low-light photography compelling.