How can I create a TV-static or very noisy image?
Asked 12/6/2017
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I usually try to minimize image noise, but in this case I want the opposite: an image that looks like pure static or the “snow” seen on an untuned TV. Can this be created in-camera, or is there a better way to do it?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
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If you want the look of snow on a TV picture, then you don't want to do this in the camera. The snow is essentially random noise. Sensor noise is far from random. You can make the native camera noise a large fraction of the image signal easily enough, but you'll probably be disappointed by the nature of the noise.
The easiest way to make a snowy-noise picture is to add it in post-processing. Basically just add a random value to each pixel. For a little more sophistication, you can even adjust the frequency content of the noise.
By doing this in post-processing, you can chose the parameters of the noise arbitrarily, and try various configurations to see how they look.
As always, the best strategy is to use the camera to capture as much information about the scene as possible. That leaves maximum flexibility for post-processing, even if that processing includes adding noise or otherwise "degrading" image signal content.
Originally by user7603. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user7603
8y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes, you can increase camera noise by using the highest ISO, a long exposure, and even shooting with the lens covered. But if your goal is true TV-style static, doing it in-camera usually won’t give the look you want.
TV snow is essentially random noise, while camera sensor noise is not fully random and often has patterns or characteristics that look different from television static. You may get a very noisy frame, but it will likely be less convincing than the effect you’re after.
The best approach is to create the effect in post-processing by adding random noise to the image, or even generating a fully noisy frame from scratch. This gives you full control over how strong the noise is and how fine or coarse it appears.
So: if you just want “more camera noise,” use high ISO and long exposure. If you want authentic-looking static/snow, add random noise in editing rather than relying on the camera sensor.
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