Opening
the Nikon *.NEF RAW file with Photoshop CS or
Nikon Capture 4.1 results in different noise
and grain patterns, even with noise reduction
OFF in both programs. Photoshop CS results in
fine film-like grain that is more visible,
while Nikon Capture 4.1 produces a coarser
but smoother grain.
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Photoshop
CS produces a better overall noise reduction,
but introduces waves in uniform surfaces such
as skies, common to many automated noise reduction
methods. The remaining grain can be reduced
by the luminance
smoothing slider, but it should be used with
caution, so as not to introduce "water
paint" effects.
Nikon Capture 4.1 reduces noise less aggressively but
introduces no waves. Too much noise reduction will
also lead to "water paint" effects.
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When using the manual 123di noise removal method on
image A, the Photoshop CS film-like grain remains present
(but when looking at the RGB image the color noise
is removed). When removing the noise from image B,
the sky is free of noise and grain, resulting in a
very smooth sky. Image F is the best result, followed
by E. Of course E and F require more time.
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A. Opened with
Photoshop CS
without any noise removal.
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B. Opened with
Nikon Capture 4.1
without any noise removal.
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C. Opened
and
noise removal with
Photoshop CS.
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D. Opened
and
noise removal with
Nikon Capture 4.1
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E. Opened with
Photoshop CS and with
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F. Opened with
Nikon Capture 4.1 and with
123di
noise removal.
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view A->C->E.
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