Still Photo ISO Speed Settings

Set the ISO speed to suit the ambient light level. In Basic Zone modes, ISO speed is set automatically.

  1. Tap the ISO speed display.

  2. Set the ISO speed.

    • Turn the Main dial dial or select a registered setting value.
    • You can register frequently used ISO speed setting values by specifying an option other than [AUTO] and selecting [Register].
    • With [AUTO] selected, ISO speed is set automatically.
    • When [AUTO] is selected, pressing the shutter button halfway will display the ISO speed actually set.
    • You can also press the INFO button to set the speed to [AUTO].

ISO speed guide

  • Low ISO speeds reduce image noise but may increase the risk of camera/subject shake or reduce the area in focus (shallower depth of field), in some shooting conditions.
  • High ISO speeds enable low-light shooting, a larger area in focus (deeper depth of field), and longer flash range but may increase image noise.

Note

  • Can also be set on the [ISO speed] screen in [Shooting: ISO speed settings].

Caution

  • Image noise (such as graininess, dots of light, or banding), irregular colors, or color shift may be noticeable at high ISO speeds, in high temperatures, or with long exposures.
  • When shooting in conditions that produce an extreme amount of noise, such as a combination of high ISO speed, high temperature, and long exposure, images may not be recorded properly.
  • If you use a high ISO speed and flash to shoot a close subject, overexposure may result.

Maximum [AUTO] ISO Speed

For ISO [AUTO], you can set the maximum ISO speed limit.

  1. Select [Shooting: ISO speed settings] ().

  2. Select [Max for Auto].

    • Select [Max for Auto], then press Quick Control/Set.
  3. Select the ISO speed.

    • Select the ISO speed, then press Quick Control/Set.