STOP Using ISO 100 When Photographing THIS

Summary

In this video, landscape photographer and educator Jayen Oban dispels the myth that using ISO 100 is always the best choice for capturing a perfect photograph. He explains how ISO controls the camera's sensor sensitivity to light and how raising ISO can amplify noise. Through various examples, Jayen demonstrates when it's necessary to increase ISO, such as in low light situations or when using a tripod. He also shares tips on managing noise with post-production tools and proper framing, aiming to help photographers better understand and optimize their use of ISO for different shooting scenarios.

Takeaways

• 😀 ISO is the camera setting that controls the sensor's sensitivity to light, allowing for better exposure in low-light conditions.
• 😀 Raising ISO is like amplifying audio gain—it makes your camera more sensitive to light but also increases image noise.
• 😀 ISO does not create noise; it only reveals the noise already present in an image that could be masked by good lighting.
• 😀 Good lighting helps mask noise, allowing you to use lower ISO settings while maintaining image quality.
• 😀 Every camera handles ISO differently, so it’s important to experiment with your specific gear to find its limits for noise before it becomes problematic.
• 😀 Modern cameras handle high ISO much better than older models, reducing the impact of noise in low-light situations.
• 😀 Lower ISO is preferable when you can control your aperture and shutter speed to properly expose an image, such as in landscape photography or tripod use.
• 😀 Raising ISO becomes necessary in situations with fast-moving subjects, fading light, or when using longer focal lengths.
• 😀 In sports photography, shooting indoors, or at sunset with a moving subject, increasing ISO is often required to maintain fast shutter speeds.
• 😀 Post-production tools like noise reduction software can help remove or minimize noise, allowing for higher ISO settings without sacrificing too much detail.
• 😀 To avoid exaggerated noise in photos, try framing your shots well during the shoot and avoid excessive cropping during post-processing.

Q & A

What is the common myth about ISO in photography that the video aims to debunk?

The video aims to debunk the myth that shooting at ISO 100 always results in the best possible photo. While ISO 100 works well in some situations, it isn't always the optimal choice, especially in low light or for fast-moving subjects.

How does ISO affect a camera's exposure and image quality?

ISO controls the camera's sensor sensitivity to light. Higher ISO makes the sensor more sensitive, which can help brighten an image in low-light conditions, but it can also introduce noise, making the image appear grainy.

What is the difference between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed in photography?

ISO electronically adjusts the sensor’s sensitivity to light, while aperture and shutter speed control the physical amount of light that enters the camera. Aperture adjusts the size of the lens opening, and shutter speed determines how long the sensor is exposed to light.

Why is it important to understand that ISO does not create noise in an image?

ISO does not create noise; it simply amplifies the existing noise in the image. Properly exposing an image can reduce the visibility of noise, as ISO only reveals noise that’s already present in an underexposed image.

How do camera sensors handle high ISO differently?

Different camera brands and sensor sizes handle high ISO in varying ways. Newer models and sensors often perform better at high ISO, reducing noise more effectively, but it is important to experiment with your specific camera to see how much ISO it can handle before the image quality degrades.

When should you increase your ISO in photography?

You should increase your ISO in low-light situations, when capturing fast-moving subjects (like sports or wildlife), or when shooting handheld and needing a faster shutter speed to prevent camera shake.

What are some real-life examples where raising ISO is necessary?

Examples include shooting in fading light (e.g., sunset), photographing fast-moving objects (e.g., birds or sports), or shooting handheld in low light where a higher ISO helps maintain a faster shutter speed to avoid blurry images.

How can you manage noise in high ISO images?

You can manage noise by using noise reduction software in post-production, avoiding excessive cropping, and framing the shot well on location to minimize noise before editing.

What role does post-production play in noise reduction?

Post-production software, like Lightroom, can be used to reduce noise while maintaining the sharpness and detail of the image. However, it’s important not to overdo it, as excessive noise reduction can lead to a loss of detail.

How can framing your shot help when using higher ISOs?

By framing your shot properly on location, you can avoid excessive cropping, which can exaggerate the noise in your image. Careful composition ensures that the noise blends with the scene or remains less noticeable.