What is ISO in Photography?
ISO is one of the three elements that affect exposure; the other two being aperture and shutter speed. The three elements are known as the Exposure Triangle.
Simply put, ISO is a measurement of how sensitive your camera is to the available light. The higher the ISO number on your camera, the more sensitive it is to light, while the lower the number the less sensitive it is to light.
In the most basic terms, the ISO settings will brighten or darken an image.
What is the Meaning of ISO?
The acronym ISO commonly refers to the International Organization for Standardization, an organization that sets international standards for all different kinds of measurements.
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How to Change ISO
In order to change the ISO, you will need to get out of Auto Mode. You can change the ISO in Manual, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, or Program Modes. Most cameras allow you to change the ISO in the menu, while others have a dedicated ISO button or dial.
How to Select the right ISO
Cameras have a range of ISO values. ISO values are sometimes referred to as ISO speed. The standard ISO values are: 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200. Some cameras will go as low as 50, while others go beyond 3200.
If you are shooting in a dark environment, a higher ISO value will create a brighter image. By setting your ISO to a higher value, the correct amount of light is provided to the sensor. If you shoot with a lower ISO value, you will get a darker image.
ISO values increases by the power of two. This means that if you raise your ISO from 100 to 200, you are doubling the brightness of the image.
Here is a general guide for finding the correct ISO level for your DSLR or mirrorless camera.
- ISO 100-200: Daylight
- ISO 200-400: Shade or Indoors
- ISO 400-800: Flash Indoors
- ISO 800-1600: Darker Indoors
- ISO 1600-3200: Indoors at Night
- ISO 3200+: Extra Low Light
The best ISO is the one that gives you a properly exposed image. The available light will determine whether you can use a low ISO or will have to use a higher one.
Be aware when using higher ISO values, the quality of your image will start to appear grainy. Some photographers use a higher ISO intentionally to produce this “artsy’ effect or in black and white images. For the best quality image, use the lowest ISO whenever possible.
Conclusion
Experiment and practice using different ISOs to see how they effect exposure, and the quality of your images. Once you understand what ISO is in photography and how it works, you’ll begin to take control of your art.
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[…] you want to keep your shots sharp, use a low ISO. However, if it is a darker day you may need to raise the ISO. Keep in mind that higher ISO’s […]