Taking clear photos after sunset can be challenging, especially with smartphones in the budget and mid-range segments. Whether you are photographing street food, wedding celebrations or Diwali gatherings, low light can introduce image noise, blur and loss of detail.
For better night photography, buyers should look beyond megapixel counts. Optical image stabilisation (OIS) helps reduce blur caused by hand movements, while a larger camera sensor and a wider aperture can improve light capture. A well-optimised night mode is also important for producing brighter images without excessive processing.
Three smartphones worth considering in this price range are the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion, Nothing Phone (4b) and Nothing Phone (3a). Each offers a different combination of camera hardware, battery capacity and pricing.
Motorola Edge 70 Fusion: Camera and Night Photography
The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion launched at ₹26,999 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. Motorola also displayed a price of ₹29,749 during Big Billion Days, although some reports placed its price at ₹30,999.
For photography, the smartphone features a 50MP Sony LYT-710 primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and OIS. It also includes a 13MP ultra-wide camera and a 32MP front-facing camera.
According to reviews, the main camera delivers relatively clean images in low-light conditions, with reduced noise and fewer lens flares, particularly when night mode is enabled. The combination of sensor hardware and optical stabilisation makes it a strong option for users who frequently take photos after dark.
The phone also features a 6.8-inch curved AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor. Its 7,000mAh battery supports 68W fast charging, while IP68 and IP69 ratings provide dust and water protection under specified conditions.
Weighing approximately 193 grams, the device offers a range of features for everyday use. It does not include a dedicated telephoto camera, but its main camera capabilities make it a noteworthy choice for night photography.
Nothing Phone (4b): Price, Camera and Features
The Nothing Phone (4b) launched at ₹34,999 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage configuration. During sales, its price dropped to ₹29,999, while an eligible ICICI Bank credit card offer could bring the effective price below ₹26,000.
Its camera system consists of a 50MP primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, OIS and electronic image stabilisation (EIS). The main sensor measures 1/2.76 inches. The phone also has an 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 16MP selfie camera.
Compared with the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion, its smaller main sensor may capture less detail in particularly dark scenes. However, the stabilisation systems can help reduce blur when taking handheld photographs and recording videos.
Other features include a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor and a 6,000mAh battery with 33W charging. The phone also includes a Glyph Bar design element and an IP64 rating.
For buyers who prioritise stabilised video recording and a distinctive design, the Nothing Phone (4b) offers an alternative to Motorola, particularly when sale discounts bring it within budget.
Nothing Phone (3a): An Affordable Camera Phone
The Nothing Phone (3a) is the most affordable option among these three devices. It launched at ₹24,999, with sale pricing reported at approximately ₹23,274.
The phone features a 50MP primary camera with a 1/1.57-inch sensor, an f/1.88 aperture and OIS. Its rear camera setup also includes a 50MP telephoto camera with 2x zoom and an 8MP ultra-wide camera.
Night photography results can be inconsistent. Some reviews highlight faster shutter speeds in low light, while others report noticeable image noise. In very dark conditions, the telephoto and ultra-wide cameras may also lose sharpness, making the primary camera the more practical choice after sunset.
The Nothing Phone (3a) has a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and features the brand’s distinctive Glyph design on the rear.
Its lower price makes it worth considering for buyers who want a capable camera phone without spending close to ₹30,000. However, users who frequently photograph scenes in very low light should consider the reported limitations of its secondary cameras.
Which Is the Best Camera Phone Under ₹30,000 for Night Photography?
The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion is a strong option for buyers who prioritise night photography, thanks to its 50MP Sony main sensor, OIS and large 7,000mAh battery. Its reported low-light performance makes it particularly relevant for photographing evening events and outdoor scenes.
The Nothing Phone (4b) may suit users who place greater importance on stabilised video, a distinctive design and additional purchase savings through eligible bank offers.
For buyers on a tighter budget, the Nothing Phone (3a) provides a lower-cost alternative with a 50MP primary camera and OIS, although its low-light results may vary depending on the scene and camera lens being used.
Before buying, compare the latest selling prices and available discounts. Actual camera performance can vary with lighting conditions, software processing and shooting settings, so checking detailed camera reviews can help you choose a phone that matches your photography needs.
Disclaimer: Prices, discounts and specifications mentioned in this article are based on the provided product information and reported offers. Retail prices and bank promotions may change, and eligibility conditions may apply. Camera performance varies according to lighting, software and shooting conditions. Readers should verify current prices, specifications and offers with official manufacturers or authorised retailers before making a purchase.