ISO, or International Organization for Standardization, is a measurement of a camera sensor's sensitivity to light. In photography and videography, setting the ISO determines how bright or dark an image will appear based on the amount of available light in a given environment.
A low ISO setting (such as ISO 100 or 200) is ideal for shooting in bright lighting conditions, as it results in a finer image with less digital noise. On the other hand, a high ISO setting (such as ISO 800, 1600, or higher) is necessary for shooting in low light situations, as it allows the camera sensor to capture more light and produce a brighter image. However, increasing the ISO too much can lead to noise or graininess in the final image.
Additionally, adjusting the ISO also affects the shutter speed and aperture settings of the camera. A higher ISO allows for faster shutter speeds, which can freeze motion in fast-paced scenarios, while a lower ISO typically requires slower shutter speeds to let in more light. This interplay between ISO, shutter speed, and aperture is crucial in achieving the desired exposure and creative effect in photography and videography.
In conclusion, ISO is significant in shooting photos or videos as it plays a key role in determining the overall brightness, image quality, and creative control of the final output based on the lighting conditions and desired aesthetic. It is essential for photographers and videographers to understand how to properly adjust the ISO setting to achieve the best results in different shooting scenarios.