The classic black-and-white images produced by cameras in night mode are gradually giving way to a new generation of sensors capable of maintaining color even in very low light. Here is how this technology works and when to choose it.
Why cameras switch to black and white at night
Traditional cameras, when ambient light drops below a certain threshold, activate infrared (IR) illuminators and automatically switch to black and white mode. This is a technical choice: CMOS sensors are able to "see" better in infrared than in the visible spectrum in very low light, but color is lost, and with it some details useful for identification, such as the color of a piece of clothing or a vehicle.
How full-color sensors work
24/7 color cameras use sensors with higher light sensitivity (often referred to as "starlight" or similar) paired with a wider optical aperture (f/1.0 - f/1.2) that lets in as much light as possible. In very low light conditions, some models also integrate a supplementary white light illuminator, which only activates when needed, to maintain color without completely compromising the discretion of the installation.
Practical benefits for security
Maintaining color in night recordings significantly improves the ability to identify people and vehicles: a jacket color, the color of a car, or a license plate can make the difference when reviewing footage with law enforcement. It is no coincidence that this technology is increasingly in demand for the entrances of businesses, parking lots, and residential areas with poor public lighting.
When to still prefer pure infrared
In completely dark environments, without any residual light source, infrared remains the most effective solution, because it does not depend on visible light to form an image. This is why many modern cameras combine the two technologies in a hybrid mode: color when ambient light allows it, pure infrared when darkness is total, with an automatic and seamless transition for the user.
Discover the IP cameras in our range with color night vision technology.