2006-09-15 02:00:12 · 6 answers · asked by rajeev s 1 in Consumer Electronics ➔ Cameras
It's the equivalent of 'film speed' of your old 35mm film cameras.
Basically it adjusts the sensitivity of the sensor reading the image
2006-09-15 02:07:29 · answer #1 · answered by the_big_v 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In addition to the correct answers above...
Each doubling of the rated ISO, doubles the light sensitivity.
So, ISO 200 has twice the light sensitivity of ISO 100.
This is handy, as, all other things being equal, you can have a shutter speed that's twice as fast. Let's say ISO 100 required 1/15 sec, which might be too slow. ISO 200 you could use 1/30 sec. And ISO 400 you could use 1/60 sec. Now you see the benefit for, taking kids, sports, or any low light work.
Lots of new compact cameras are increasing their ISO capability which is terrific. However- generally the top ISO is so noisy as to be unusable, and the 2nd to top ISO is only usable if you don't mind seeing lots of noise/grain in your image. So- you do give up something to get these high ISO's- and that is Image Quality.
The ONLY compact camera that has a really nice looking ISO 400 and ISO 800 is the Fuji F30 (and sister camera F20). Every other non-DSLR compact camera is 2 or more stops noisier than the Fuji F30. But- some are certainly better than others.
Just because a camera has an ISO 800 or 1600 setting, doesn't mean that you'll want to use it. You'll be better off using something (like a wall) to brace the camera while shooting lower ISO.
The other nice thing to have in a camera is Image Stabilization (IS, OIS, AS). It helps you hold the camera steady at slower shutter speeds, and buys you 2-3 stops. These systems really work, but they don't freeze subject motion. So- ultimately, it's better to have a more usable high ISO.
2006-09-15 09:36:52 · answer #2 · answered by Morey000 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
ISO is short form of International Standard Organisation. This is an international standard which indicates sensitivity of films. It is the combined unit of ASA & DIN i.e. 100 ISO=100ASA/21DIN
When ISO is double then film is 2 times more sensitive. e.g. 200 ISO film is double sensitive than ISO100. As digital camera don't use any film but it serve the same purpose. Instead of changing film you have to adjust ISO setting of the camera. If lighting condition is poor or shutter speed to be increased to avoid blurr or to capture an action, then higher ISO is helpful.
2006-09-16 11:51:57 · answer #3 · answered by Prosad 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ISO= film speed.
2006-09-15 09:08:27 · answer #4 · answered by lomatar1186 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sensitivity to light
low ISO = High detail but slower to take the shot, harder to focus
High ISO= low detail faster to take theshot easier to focus
2006-09-15 23:34:30 · answer #5 · answered by pimpster 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
International standards organization So its always the same speed film where ever you go in the world.DIN is European (i think) but the same thing.
2006-09-15 09:19:19 · answer #6 · answered by sceptic 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋