"Loosen Up on the ISO" - Digital Photography Podcast 204

Some shooters will do anything to avoid image noise, even if it means missing the shot all together. Today's cameras have improved their high ISO performance, including many compacts. Yet a lot of photographers insist on keeping the ISO setting low, even in dimly lit environments. Why? Is it that old habits die hard, or is there a real reason to keep the dial turned down? Find out what I think in this week's podcast.

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9 Comments

You're right, most people care less about grain etc and focus on the moment. Only if most photogs understood that basic principle, they'd enjoy taking photos.

Laughed out loud at 'elbowing grandma out of the way'!

Yes, I agree Emon.

I like to think about it in terms of what could I fix in post if I needed to, and what has to be right at capture.

There's no real fix for camera shake because of a slow shutter speed. But if there is a little image noise, there are plenty of ways to offset that.

Oh, and Grandma is doing fine! :)

This was another really helpful podcast. It's possible to get so obsessive about noise that it really takes over. You're really helping me to learn how to best use my S90.

That's a good point Craig. It want to discourage people from becoming obsessive about noise, and focus more on getting the shot.

I started on film so have this tendency to shoot at the lowest speed. But with todays digital equipment I force myself to change. Better to stop the action when I want than to worry about a little noise in the shadows.

Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information? It is extremely helpful for me.

We are a group of volunteers and starting a new initiative in a community. Your blog provided us valuable information to work on.You have done a marvellous job!

This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I enjoy seeing websites that understand the value of providing a prime resource for free. I truly loved reading your post. Thanks!

I know this is really boring and you are skipping to the next comment, but I just wanted to throw you a big thanks - you cleared up some things for me!