Learn noise reduction essentials

In-camera settings save time in software, but there are some important considerations for maximum usefulness Most cameras have longexposure and high-ISO noise-reduction options.

For long-exposure NR, remember that the process will take as long as your actual exposure, so it might be best avoided for multiminute exposures, due to time constraints. Always test in-camera high-ISO NR to ensure a balance between reduced noise and detail retention, and tweak settings if necessary from within the custom settings menu on your camera. If used at bespoke levels, these noise-battling functions can produce clean images out-of-camera and on an image-specific basis.

SPOTLESS LONG EXPOSURES By capturing a ‘black frame’, long-exposure NR is able to cancel out much of the noise produced by the extended sensor activity, more effectively than post-production work. However, it can interrupt your workflow considerably

CLEAN HIGH SENSITIVITIES When an increase in ISO is unavoidable, such as during performances under stage lighting, highISO NR can minimise work at the computer. A downside is often a reduced continuous shooting rate