Which strategy helps minimize noise in low light photography?

• A. Increase ISO
• B. Shorten exposure time
• C. Use lower ISO with longer exposure or more light
• D. Disable noise reduction

Answer: (C)

In low light, noise mostly comes from amplifying the sensor signal. Keeping the ISO low reduces that amplification, which lowers noise. You then compensate by letting in more light—either with a longer exposure or by adding light to the scene—so you still reach proper exposure without turning up the sensor gain. Shortening the exposure would reduce the light even further, often forcing you to raise ISO or accept underexposure, both of which increase noise. Turning off noise reduction just leaves more grain visible, so it doesn’t help minimize noise. So using a lower ISO with a longer exposure or more light gives you the cleanest result in dim conditions.