sploo wrote in post #16695896
Yes, I find the same. For some scenarios (e.g. landscape work) ETTR is very useful, as you can use longer exposures to increase the signal-to-noise ratio. However, when I'm pushed for needing higher ISO settings, it's usually because I need a faster shutter speed - therefore overexposing using a longer shutter speed is rarely useful.
I've seen it mentioned quite a few times that the 7D really benefits from a bit of ETTR (in terms of reducing noise) when using higher ISO settings - but it's always struck me as counter to the point of using a higher ISO setting (i.e. keeping the shutter speed up).
I suppose there may be scenarios where you have a (just) sufficient shutter speed at some ISO setting, and the noise will be better if you go up one ISO stop (e.g. from 1000 to 2000) but then over expose slightly by not speeding up your shutter by a full stop (e.g. instead of going from 1/100 to 1/200, go to 1/125 or 1/160).
My opinion is the same regarding ETTR.
I know many people swear that it is great and all that but, just like you said, most of the time in a high ISO situation we are already shooting at the slowest "acceptable" shutter speed.
If let's say a low-light indoor event calls for a minimum of 1/60 shutter speed (e.g. people socializing, chatting, so there is some movement), and you're already at f/2.8 with a 24-70 2.8 lens, obviously you'll get whatever ISO that gives you proper exposure, let's say ISO 1600. Now, how much better off would I be by ETTR and either shooting 1/30s (can't do that), or bumping the ISO to 3200, then pulling it back in post?
I am aware that there are some complex signal-to-noise numbers involved here, but according to my tests, the end result is pretty much the same with my cameras. Shooting at 3200 with +1 EV ETTR then pulled back by a stop results a very similar image to shooting at 1600 at 0 EV. Again, I cannot always sacrifice shutter speed.
Of course major underexposure is a problem and should be avoided but I'm talking about proper exposure vs ETTR.
But if people believe that they get better results with ETTR, where they cannot sacrifice shutter speed (hence bumping the ISO up), that's great for them, I'm not against anyone using ETTR. I just don't see the benefit when you're already shooting at the lowest limit in terms of your minimum shutter speed, which you cannot afford to sacrifice in a given situation.