CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) cameras typically require some amount of light to capture clear images or video footage. The amount of light needed depends on the camera's specifications and the sensitivity of its image sensor.
In well-lit environments, such as during the day or in areas with artificial lighting, CCTV cameras can capture clear images and videos without any issues. However, in low-light or no-light conditions, CCTV cameras may struggle to produce usable footage without additional lighting.
To address low-light situations, there are CCTV cameras equipped with low-light or night vision capabilities. These cameras use various technologies such as infrared (IR) illuminators or thermal imaging to capture images even in darkness or low-light conditions. IR illuminators emit infrared light that is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by the camera's image sensor, allowing it to "see" in the dark.
So, while CCTV cameras generally require some level of light to function effectively, there are specialized cameras available that are specifically designed to operate in low-light or no-light conditions through the use of additional lighting technologies.