Digital SLR cameras allow you to adjust the light sensitivity of their sensors.
Conducting an ISO test is a good way to predict your camera's ability to take clean images in different amounts of light. ISO, short for International Organization of Standards, is a measure of your camera sensor's sensitivity to light. Higher ISO settings let you shoot in darker conditions in exchange for more digital noise in your images. Digital noise, which is caused by electronic static in your sensor at higher ISO settings, can cause your images to look soft or out of focus.
Instructions
1. Set up your subject, and install your camera on a tripod.
2. Place your camera on manual. Compose your image through the viewfinder.
3. Dial your camera to its lowest ISO setting at 100. Look through the viewfinder to find your light meter. Set the shutter speed and aperture for the correct exposure, according to the light meter. Press the shutter release to capture the image. Record your ISO, shutter speed and aperture settings.
4. Keep the aperture setting the same, and repeat image captures at ISO settings 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 and higher if your camera allows. Adjust only the shutter speed for even exposures at higher settings. Record the settings for each exposure.
5. View the images on your computer and compare the results.
Tags: your camera, shutter speed, higher settings, light meter, shutter speed aperture