Whether you’re a content creator, client, or agency partner, capturing a great image of your campaign on an LED advertising van can be surprisingly tricky. Unlike traditional posters or billboards, digital screens introduce a few unique challenges when it comes to photography and video.
At Gorilla Media, we want your campaign to shine in person and on screen. This guide explains how to photograph an LED advertising van successfully, using either a DSLR or your smartphone. From camera settings to creative techniques, here’s everything you need to know to avoid flicker, glare and blurry content.
Why LED Screens Are Difficult to Capture
LED screens are made up of thousands of light-emitting diodes that refresh rapidly, usually at 60Hz (60 times per second). While our eyes can’t see this refresh cycle, cameras often can. That’s why videos of digital screens sometimes show banding, flicker, or a rolling wave across the image.
You might also notice moiré patterns in still photos. This happens when the camera sensor interferes with the screen’s pixel grid. Overexposure is another common issue, especially when filming at night or in low light.
These are normal challenges, and with a few simple adjustments, you can capture clean, high-quality images of your LED advertising van in almost any condition.
Recommended DSLR Settings
If you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, start by setting your shutter speed to either 1/60s or 1/120s. Thes
e speeds help sync with the screen’s refresh rate, reducing flicker in video. For frame rate, aim for 30fps or 60fps – not 25fps, which is common in the UK but more prone to interference with LED refresh cycles.
Use an aperture between f/2.8 and f/5.6 to soften the pixel detail and allow more light in, especially at dusk or at night. ISO can sit between 100–400 during daylight and increase to 800 or 1600 after dark, depending on lighting. Set your white balance to daylight (~5500K) during the day, and adjust it down to 3200K–4500K in the evening to avoid colour shifts.
Using a tripod or stable surface is also a good idea, particularly for longer exposures or filming at night.
Smartphone Photography Tips
Modern smartphones can produce great results, but you need to work with the screen, not against it. To capture your LED advertising van clearly:
· Lock the focus and exposure by tapping and holding the screen on the lit area of the van.
· Lower the exposure manually (the small sun icon on most phones) to avoid blowing out bright screen content.
· Avoid zooming in digitally – instead, move physically closer to the van if you need a tighter shot.
· Use a stabiliser or hold steady to avoid motion blur, especially in darker conditions.
Some phones offer advanced settings through apps like Filmic Pro or Open Camera. These apps allow you to fine-tune frame rate and shutter speed for better results, especially with video.
Distance, Angle and Pixel Pitch
The pixel pitch of an LED screen refers to the distance between each diode. Gorilla Media uses high-resolution screens with pixel pitches of 3.9mm to 4.8mm, which look excellent at viewing distances of 2 metres or more.
When photographing an LED screen too closely, you might notice visible pixel structure or moiré patterns. To reduce this, try:
· Stepping back at least 2 metres
· Shooting straight on instead of at a sharp angle
· Using a wide aperture to slightly blur the grid
This approach helps capture a cleaner image and ensures your campaign visuals look as good on camera as they do in person.
Artwork That Looks Better on Camera
If you’re designing artwork for an LED advertising van, you should consider how it will photograph as well as how it will display. Large white areas can appear overly bright in photos, while pale colours and fine text can be difficult to read at a distance.
To improve photo results:
· Use high-contrast colour combinations
· Keep your fonts bold and legible
· Avoid excessive detail or pale-on-pale layouts
· Stick to strong, clean branding elements
Simpler designs not only perform better on the road but also translate more clearly to photos and video.
When to Shoot for Best Results
Lighting conditions play a huge role in how your content will look. The best times to capture an LED advertising van are:
· Golden hour – early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and flattering
· Overcast days – which offer even exposure without harsh shadows
· Night – for dramatic contrast, as long as you expose properly for the screen
In all cases, try to expose for the screen itself to keep colours accurate and content readable.
Let Us Help You Get the Best Shot
Gorilla Media campaigns are built to make an impact in real life, but we also understand the value of showing your campaign online. If you need advice on how to capture your LED campaign professionally, we’re happy to help. Our team can walk you through filming techniques, artwork advice, and timing recommendations to ensure your media looks great from every angle.
Don’t forget – you can also download our quick-reference Cheat Sheet here for a fast guide to settings, shot tips and mobile tweaks.
To find out more or book your next campaign, visit www.mobile-billboards.co.uk or call us on 0333 500 5001.
We’ll make sure your campaign looks just as powerful on camera as it does on the road.