Iso

Definition

ISO, or International Standards Organization, refers to a key camera setting that determines the sensitivity of the camera sensor to light. It plays a crucial role in photography and videography, especially for journalists who need to capture images and videos under various lighting conditions. Adjusting the ISO allows for greater flexibility in achieving proper exposure without necessarily changing the aperture or shutter speed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A higher ISO setting allows you to capture images in low-light conditions but can introduce noise or graininess in the final image.
2. Common ISO settings range from 100 to 6400 or higher, depending on the camera model and its capabilities.
3. Using a lower ISO is preferable in bright lighting situations to ensure clarity and reduce noise in images.
4. ISO settings can be adjusted manually or set to auto, allowing the camera to choose the best sensitivity based on lighting conditions.
5. In videography, maintaining a consistent ISO setting is crucial for achieving a uniform look across different shots.

Review Questions

• How does adjusting ISO impact the quality of photos taken in varying lighting conditions?
  • Adjusting ISO directly affects how sensitive the camera's sensor is to light. In low-light situations, increasing the ISO can help capture clearer images without requiring longer exposures or wider apertures. However, using a high ISO can also introduce noise, which may degrade image quality. Therefore, striking a balance between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed is essential for journalists who need to adapt to changing lighting conditions while maintaining image clarity.
• Compare the effects of using high vs. low ISO settings on both photography and videography.
  • Using high ISO settings allows for better performance in low-light environments by making the sensor more sensitive to light, which is useful for capturing fast-moving subjects. However, this often results in increased noise, leading to a grainy appearance in photos and videos. On the other hand, low ISO settings are ideal for bright conditions as they produce clearer images with less noise but may require adjustments in aperture or shutter speed to maintain proper exposure. Understanding when to use each setting is vital for journalists aiming for optimal visual storytelling.
• Evaluate the importance of understanding ISO within the broader context of visual storytelling for journalists.
  • Understanding ISO is crucial for journalists because it enhances their ability to tell stories visually under various lighting conditions. Mastery of ISO settings allows for more creative control over imagery, ensuring that critical moments are captured clearly regardless of environmental challenges. This knowledge empowers journalists to adapt quickly during events, delivering high-quality content that conveys emotions and messages effectively. Ultimately, being adept at manipulating ISO contributes significantly to a journalist's overall skill set in crafting compelling narratives through photography and videography.

Related terms

Aperture:

The opening in a camera lens that controls the amount of light entering the camera, affecting both exposure and depth of field.

Shutter Speed: The duration of time the camera shutter is open, determining how long light hits the camera sensor and impacting motion blur.

Exposure Triangle: The combination of ISO, aperture, and shutter speed that determines the overall exposure of a photograph or video.