How do you focus accurately in the dark without autofocus?

2 Use a flashlight

A flashlight can be a handy tool for focusing in the dark, especially if you are shooting a subject that is close to you or has some contrast. You can use a flashlight to illuminate your subject or a nearby object that is at the same distance as your subject. Then, you can manually focus on the lit area using your lens ring or your camera's focus magnifier. Once you have locked your focus, you can turn off the flashlight and take your shot.

3 Use a remote shutter

Another way to avoid camera shake and blur when focusing in the dark is to use a remote shutter or a self-timer. A remote shutter will allow you to trigger your camera without touching it, which can cause slight movements and vibrations. A self-timer will do the same, but you will have to set a delay before your camera takes the shot. Either way, you will be able to focus on your subject and compose your shot without worrying about losing your focus.

5 Adjust your aperture

Your aperture is the opening of your lens that controls how much light enters your camera. Your aperture also affects your depth of field, which is the area of your scene that is in focus. Generally, a wider aperture (such as f/2.8) will let in more light, but will also create a shallower depth of field. A narrower aperture (such as f/11) will let in less light, but will also create a deeper depth of field. Depending on your subject and your creative vision, you may want to choose a wider or a narrower aperture for your night photos. However, keep in mind that a wider aperture will require more precise focusing, while a narrower aperture will require longer exposures or higher ISOs.

6 Adjust your ISO and shutter speed

Your ISO and shutter speed are the other two components of your exposure triangle, along with your aperture. Your ISO is the sensitivity of your camera's sensor to light. Your shutter speed is the duration of time that your camera's shutter is open. Both of these settings affect how bright or dark your photos are, as well as how much noise or blur they have. Generally, a higher ISO will make your photos brighter, but will also introduce more noise or grain. A slower shutter speed will also make your photos brighter, but will also create more blur or motion. Depending on your lighting conditions and your subject's movement, you may want to adjust your ISO and shutter speed accordingly. However, keep in mind that a higher ISO will reduce your image quality, while a slower shutter speed will require a tripod or a remote shutter.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?