When using flash with Canon DSLRs, the live view may appear very dark (dark live view, dark preview screen, black live view after a capture). This issue stems from a camera setting. On Canon cameras, this is caused by a setting called Exposure Simulation (or “Exp. Sim.” for short).
Starting in app version 1.58.0 you just need to select "live view too dark" in the camera settings. Please make sure your camera is on the latest firmware version.
For Canon Cameras with an Exposure Simulation Setting
If you’re using models like the Canon 80D, 90D, 5D series, 6D series, M5, M50, R100, etc., you’re in luck - this is a quick fix.
Find the “Exp. Sim.” or “Exposure Simulation” option in your camera menu.
Switch it to Disable.
Now your live view will show a separate exposure from the actual photo, meaning your camera will automatically adjust the preview to look bright and properly lit, even though your flash is only firing during the photo itself.
For Canon Cameras Without an Exposure Simulation Setting
If you’re rocking an older or more budget-friendly model like the Canon M3, EOS Rebel SL1, SL2, T6i, or T7i, you won’t find this setting in your menus. But don’t worry you’ve got options:
Use constant lighting instead of flash. This will keep live view bright and make framing easy.
Try a Canon TTL-compatible flash. Some models will auto-adjust live view brightness when paired with an official Canon TTL flash.
Use the “Brighten Live View” setting in our app (called Liveview too dark? in current app versions). If all else fails, we’ve got you covered. In the app’s Camera Settings, turn on Brighten Live View and your preview will instantly get the boost it needs.
Using app version 1.58.0 or later
Update the Booth.Events app from the App Store.
Update your camera to its latest firmware (usually done on a computer, using the camera maker's instructions).
Set the camera dial to M.
In the app's Camera Settings, turn on Liveview too dark?. You don't need to change Exposure Simulation on the camera yourself.
Exposure Simulation keeps turning back on, or camera settings won't change
Version 1.58.0 had a bug where this could happen (for example on the Canon R100). It is fixed in the hotfix version 1.58.1. Update the app from the App Store, and update your camera firmware.
If you can't update yet: turn off Liveview too dark?, change your camera settings, then turn Liveview too dark? back on.
Live view is completely black (not just dark)?
Restart the camera and the iPad, reconnect the USB cable, and try another cable. More steps: USB Camera: Settings & Troubleshooting.
Common questions
Do I need to change Exposure Simulation on my camera?
Not on app version 1.58.0 or later. Turn on Liveview too dark? in Camera Settings instead, and keep your camera firmware up to date.
My photos are dark too, not just the live view. Is this the same problem?
No. This article fixes the live view only. For dark photos, add a flash or more light and check your settings: Why Are My Photos Blurry, Grainy, Dark or Washed Out?.