How I Fixed My Dark, Grainy Footage Using AI Tools

Hey everyone, I wanted to share a quick solution for anyone struggling with low-light video footage. A few weeks ago, I was working on some night-time clips for a project, and the videos came out super dark and grainy. I tried adjusting brightness and contrast manually, but it barely helped.

After some research, I discovered low-light video enhancement (LLVE) tools powered by AI, and it totally transformed my footage. These tools can brighten shadows, reduce noise, restore colors, and even upscale resolution.

Here’s what worked best for me:

HitPaw VikPea – My Go-To AI Video Enhancer

I ended up using HitPaw VikPea, and it’s incredibly user-friendly. You can enhance multiple videos at once, preview before-and-after changes, and even upscale your clips up to 8K.

How I used it:

1. Download and install HitPaw VikPea. Click on AI Color → Low-Light Enhancement Model and import your videos.

2. Toggle the Low-Light Enhancement Model and preview the results.

3. Choose your export resolution (up to 8K) and export the enhanced footage.

After a few minutes, my previously dark and noisy clips looked sharp, bright, and way more professional.

Other AI Tools Worth Trying

If you want alternatives:

Topaz Video Enhance AI: Great for detailed upscales and professional work.

AVCLabs Video Enhancer AI: Simple presets for quick fixes.

Adobe Premiere Pro + AI Plugins: Professional editing with AI noise reduction.

iMovie (Mac users): Free, basic low-light enhancements if you don’t need AI.

Tips for Better Low-Light Video

● Shoot in 1080p minimum, 4K is even better.

● Use ISO 800–1600 to balance brightness and noise.

● Enable HDR mode on your camera if available.

● Combine proper shooting techniques with AI enhancement for best results.

AI-powered low-light video enhancers like HitPaw VikPea can rescue dark, grainy videos by reducing noise, brightening shadows, restoring color, and even upscaling resolution. Works for vlogs, cinematic scenes, or night-time security footage.