20d noise

[biggin]

what is the max iso on the 20d before noise becomes unacceptable?

[thomasrhee]

Depends on who you ask but I find that 1600 is quite useable. Even 3200 is useable for snapshots, small prints and web images.

[kevin_c]

I tend to use ISO 400 for most of my shooting but have used 800 and got some nice 12x8's with virtually no visible noise. at 1600 noise starts to become more apparent, but it all depends upon lighting/exposure/subject etc.

I once tried my 20D at the 3200 setting and noise was very visible when viewed at 100%, but on a small 6x4/7x5 print I'm sure it would be fine with carefull post-processing - At the end of the day you just have to experiment and if the only way of getting the shot is to use a high ISO then so be it...

[Andy_T]

I have treated ISO 3200 pictures with the free Noiseware community edition (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=57047&highlight=noiseware)tool ... worked like a charm.

Normally I use ISO 400 or ISO 800 as default (depending on light levels) and go to 1600 or 3200 if required.

As another forum member says in his signature line ... High ISO noise - I'd rather have that than miss the shot altogether.

Best regards,
Andy

[mr.photoguy]

I will use any iso on my 20D. I never hesitate to jack it up anymore.
When I first got the camera I was so nervous about jacking the iso up high, but now I don't even hesitte.
This is a iso 3200 shot in very low light.
http://www.pbase.com/brucescott/image/42186790

I usually overexpose, and just try to hold the camera very steady, and use mirror lock up.. However the main thing is to overexpose a little bit.

[gasrocks]

Are you using Neat Image (free version is fine) or Noise Ninja? Makes a big difference when used correctly. Part of the beauty of the 20D is the ability to "run up" the iso speed when needed.