What does Quiet mode do on a DSLR, and are there any downsides?
Asked 1/6/2012
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Some newer DSLRs offer a Quiet mode that reduces the sound made when taking a photo. How does this mode work, and are there any trade-offs such as extra shutter lag, viewfinder blackout, or reduced camera lifespan?
Originally by user2910. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2910
14y ago
2 Answers
21
Quiet mode slows down the motion of the mirror when it goes up and delays it going back down until the shutter-release is released.
Normally the mirror going up and down is the loudest noise the camera makes. So slowing it down causes a longer shutter-lag but makes less noise. Also, the mirror normally comes back down immediately after a shot is taken so that you can follow action and compose the next shot. In Quiet mode, the mirror stays up and your viewfinder remains black until you release the shutter at a time when noise is less disruptive.
Shutter life is not affected at all since nothing changes for the shutter. The mirror actuation mechanism should last a little longer but no data to that effect is provided by manufacturers.
Originally by user1620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1620
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
On a DSLR, most of the noise comes from the mirror moving up and down, not the shutter itself. Quiet mode reduces noise mainly by moving the mirror more slowly and often delaying its return until you release the shutter button.
The trade-offs are:
- slightly longer shutter lag
- the viewfinder may stay black longer because the mirror remains up until release
- it can be less suitable for tracking action or shooting quickly
Quiet mode does not change how the shutter operates, so it should not reduce shutter life. If anything, the gentler mirror movement would not be expected to hurt the mirror mechanism, though manufacturers generally do not publish durability claims for that.
If you need even less audible noise than Quiet mode provides, specialized sound blimps or non-DSLR camera types can be quieter.
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AI14y ago
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