Question about Basic Editing and Noise

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX100

08/10/2009 10:50:34 PM · #1

Hi, i was reading the basic editing rules and i couldn't find if i can add noise to a shot in basic editing challenges. Can i? I don't know much about CS4 and i'm trying to learn.
If i can...can someone teach me with details how to create this effect on a shot? And how to reduce noise with quality?
Maybe it's a lot to ask, but if someone has some free time to help a newbie, i'll be glad!
PS: I have a plugin for CS4: "Noiseware Professional".

spiritualspatula

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

08/11/2009 12:30:48 AM · #2

Introducing noise is legal so long as you uniformly do it. I could explain how to use the normal CS4 filter for noise reduction, but not your plug-in, as I use Noise Ninja. The "standard" filter is accessed via Filter->Noise->Reduce Noise, and has a variety of sliders that I can explain if you want. The "advanced" option lets you apply the filter to individual channels (blue is notorious for noise). As far as doing it and keeping quality, presumably, by using your plug-in, you will be achieving a greater amount of reduction with less of a decrease in sharpness, so that will help you. Otherwise, after you decrease your noise you can employ any number of sharpening methods, which is a whole other discussion. There is likely a separate modifer in Noiseware, but again, I'm not familiar.
To add noise, you will do Filter->Noise->Add Noise.

Keep in mind these filters will modify your image directly, so either make a duplicate layer to put these on or convert them to smart filters, which is done by going to Filters-> Convert for Smart Filter. This will make your current layer into a smart object and enable you to remove it later, change the blending mode and opacity, as well as make a layer mask. To remove it later you will click and drag it to the trashcan at the bottom of your layer dialog box. I don't think the delete key works with smart filters, but don't have CS4 on this machine to verify.

That should get you started on things.

ETA: You cannot change the blending mode from normal or create a layer mask in basic editing, however.

Message edited by author 2009-08-11 00:54:31.

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS

08/11/2009 10:48:54 AM · #3

Thank you very much Derek, i'll try here!

kirbic

Canon EOS R5

08/11/2009 11:44:45 AM · #4

Note that the Basic Rules were recently modified, and it is possible that this might affect the legality of added noise, if it becomes a "feature" of the photo. That said, the following language from the Basic Rules still applies:

You May:
use filters or stand-alone utilities designed to preserve image integrity (such as Neat Image, Unsharp Mask, Dust & Scratches, and color correction tools). These filters must be applied uniformly to the entire image, and must not be used in such a way that their use becomes a feature. No â��effectsâ�� filters may be applied to your image, with the exception of Noise and Gaussian Blur.

Note the exception specifically allowing Gaussian blur and noise *as effects.* I *ass-u-me* that this means that pretty much any use of these two filters is still legal, however some Site Council input may be a good thing at this juncture. I'll direct SC attention here to generate some discussion.

08/11/2009 11:55:56 AM · #5

Humm, reading this i agree with you

kirbic, i think that add noise is permited. Thank you!