Night vision security cameras see in the dark in one of two ways: infrared (IR) LEDs that light the scene invisibly and give a black-and-white picture, or low-light and white-light systems that keep a colour picture. Advertised IR range often runs 30 to 100 feet, but usable detail is shorter, and anything behind glass or too close to the lens washes out. For clean night footage, pick a camera with a larger sensor and a wide aperture, add real lighting at entrances, and aim away from windows and reflective surfaces.
PCBy the Pixl Canada install team. Updated . 6 min read.
- IR vs colour night vision in one table
- Why night footage looks washed out
- Six placement fixes
- Free written quote for wired CCTV
- IR night vision is black and white and works in total darkness.
- Colour night vision needs some light, from the scene or a built-in lamp.
- Advertised range overstates usable detail, so test at the real distance.
- Do not aim at windows or glossy surfaces. IR bounces back and blinds the picture.
What are the types of night vision on security cameras?
| Type | How it works | Picture | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infrared (IR) | IR LEDs light the scene with light you cannot see | Black and white | Total darkness, long views |
| Low-light / starlight | A sensitive sensor and wide aperture use whatever light exists | Colour in dim light | Streets, porches and yards with some lighting |
| White-light colour | A built-in white LED turns on at night or on motion | Full colour | Entrances and driveways, and as a deterrent |
| Thermal | Detects heat instead of light | Heat map | Perimeters and large sites |
How far can a night vision camera see?
Makers advertise IR ranges from about 30 to over 100 feet. Treat these as best-case numbers: the usable range for recognising a face or reading a plate is shorter, and it depends on the lens, the sensor and what is in the scene. Test a camera at the distance you need. Resolution helps too: see 4K security cameras, and for plates, the licence plate camera guide.
Why does night footage look washed out, and how do you fix it?
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| A white glare filling the picture | IR bounces off a wall, soffit or nearby surface | Move the camera out from the wall or angle it down |
| A glowing blur behind glass | The camera looks through a window | Mount outside or use a camera with the IR turned off and rely on room light |
| Insects or spiderwebs lighting up | IR attracts bugs and webs in front of the lens | Clean the lens and housing. See cleaning a camera lens |
| Dark face under a hood | Light from above, none on the face | Add lighting at face height |
| Grainy picture | Small sensor in low light | Choose a larger sensor and a wide aperture |
| Motion blur | Slow shutter in the dark | Add light so the camera can use a faster shutter |
How do you choose a night vision camera?
- Decide the job: a face at the door, a driveway, a yard.
- Add lighting where you can. A porch or motion light does more than any camera feature.
- Pick colour or IR. Colour is easier to identify. IR works in total darkness.
- Check the sensor and aperture, not just the IR range.
- Test at night from the spot where the camera will go.
See how to choose a security camera and where to place cameras. Pixl installs the cameras you choose: one or two WiFi cameras from $200, wired CCTV by free quote, and you pay after the job. See security camera installer.
Night vision security cameras: frequently asked questions
How does night vision work on a security camera?
Infrared LEDs light the scene with invisible light and the camera records a black-and-white picture. Colour systems use a sensitive sensor or a built-in lamp.
How far can night vision see?
Advertised IR range is about 30 to over 100 feet, but usable detail is shorter. Test at your distance.
Why is my night vision blurry or white?
IR is bouncing off a nearby surface or a window, or the lens has dirt or webs on it.
Is colour night vision better?
It is easier to identify people and cars, but it needs some light. IR works in total darkness.
Can I use night vision behind a window?
Not well. IR reflects off the glass. Mount the camera outside or turn off the IR.
Does Pixl install night vision cameras?
Yes. Send photos of the spot to (587) 899-7495. Wired CCTV quotes are free, and you pay after the job.
Want cameras that actually see at night?
Send photos of the spots. We suggest the setup and lighting. You pay after the job.
Types of CCTV cameras
How to choose a security camera
Where to place cameras
How far a camera can see
Weather ratings and cold limits
Night image problems and fixes
Thermal security cameras
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Outdoor security cameras compared for Canadian winters
Sources and method. General description of IR, low-light and white-light night vision as used by camera makers and installers. Ranges are manufacturer claims and vary by model. Pixl prices were checked in October 2026, in Canadian dollars, before tax.
About Pixl Canada. Pixl Canada is an installation company based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving cities across Canada with TV mounting, security cameras, appliance installation and smart home setup. Call or text (587) 899-7495. Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm and Sunday 9am to 7pm.