If you have a video camera with night vision...?

Question

does it just have a light on it, or is it REALLY night vision?

Answer 1

Many Sony camcorders have a "SuperNightShot" feature. When the feature is activated, the camcorder drops to monochrome mode and a built-in infrared LED lights up. In complete darkness, zero light, you can see/record monochromatic (green/white) video. Because it is an infrared light, you can't see it.

REAL night vision would mean large imaging chips taking in any available light and sophisticated electronics that amplify that light a LOT - Consumer camcorders don't do that.