Grainy Photos

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paulcrill

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Hey all.

I have a canon powershot s3 IS )(6 mega pixel), but I think I've messed up the settings as the photos I'm taking are very grainy. But they should be very clear. The actual photos are on 'large size' so come out about 3 megs each. I've also got the superfine option enabled. Could that be the problem? I thought that would increase the detail, but am wondering if that is contributing to the grain.
 
ISO settings? Check if it set to High ISO auto or if u set the iso manually higher than 100.

From dpreview http://www.dpreview.com/news/0602/06022111canons3is.asp

Increased ISO speed

In addition to Image Stabilization, the PowerShot S3 IS features a new High ISO Auto setting and ISO 800 to further extend the camera's low light shooting capabilities. High ISO Auto automatically sets exposure using the higher range of ISO sensitivities, enabling faster shutter speeds in low light and increased image stability at the telephoto end. A dedicated ISO button allows for easy switching between ISO sensitivities.
Click to expand...
 
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paulcrill said:
What about superfine? Is that worth using? does it give more detail?
Click to expand...

At the end of the day you need to look at the size you need to print. Take a look here http://www.design215.com/toolbox/megapixels.php This will give you an idea on what size (megapixel) you should take.

If you are an enthusiast you will take at maximum resolution. This is so you may do post editing. But if you are just going to snap shots and print normal photos then scale down, get more pics on the memory... Its up to you what you want to do...
 
paulcrill said:
What about superfine? Is that worth using? does it give more detail?
Click to expand...
The higher the resolution you use the more you can do with it later. Memory cards are cheap and you're always going to have better results down-scaling than up-scaling. You also have more room to play with when it comes to cropping.

Unfortunately point and shoots do not have good low light sensitivity so keep your ISO as low as you can and use a tripod or anything you can to keep the camera steady.
 
paulcrill said:
Hey all.

I have a canon powershot s3 IS )(6 mega pixel), but I think I've messed up the settings as the photos I'm taking are very grainy. But they should be very clear. The actual photos are on 'large size' so come out about 3 megs each. I've also got the superfine option enabled. Could that be the problem? I thought that would increase the detail, but am wondering if that is contributing to the grain.
Click to expand...

As others have mentioned, it is most likely the ISO setting. I have the S5 and the higher ISO's are very grainy. I never shoot above ISO 200 unless absolutely necessary. I mostly leave it on 100.

Sorry for asking, but you did RTFM? :)
 
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