The Dark Side of Black Friday:

Mastering Low-Light Photography Without Compromise

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.

Film Choice: Embrace the Grain

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!

Shutter Speed: Motion Blur or Crystal Clarity?

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.

  • slower speed

  • faster speed

Flash Photography: Light It Right

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.

Embrace the Imperfections

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.