Photographers usually have specific ISO values for their cameras, including a base ISO, the first ISO where noise becomes noticeable, the highest acceptable ISO for good quality, and the maximum ISO they're willing to use in an emergency.

This lesson is a two parter.

Part One

Do an ISO experiment: In a setting with consistent lighting, take multiple exposures in attempt to identify:

  1. Your base ISO

  2. The first ISO where noise becomes noticeable

  3. The highest acceptable ISO for good image quality

  4. The maximum ISO you’re willing to use in an emergency

Part Two (submission photos)

Use your highest acceptable ISO.

  • Using your highest acceptable ISO, take any photo. If you have a style or genre that you’re generally attracted to, go that route. If you’re still experimenting with various photo types, go with whatever sparks your interest. 

Use your emergency ISO. 

  • Using your emergency ISO, take any photo. If you have a style or genre that you’re generally attracted to, go that route. If you’re still experimenting with various photo types, go with whatever sparks your interest.

With your two photos, include a write up about your experience using the high ISO, and where you think it is helpful. If you processed the photo with any denoise system, explain what you did and how it impacted the final image. Please include what feedback you would like from the mentors.

Don’t forget to complete your Learning Journals!

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