u/slow_ready_4_this

Herring Gull in flight over Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, Maine

Gear: Nikon Z6 III + NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S with 1.4x TC

Hi everyone,

Looking for tips to avoid the artificial appearance that can come with denoising.

These shots were taken with a Nikon Z6III paired with a 400 f/4.5 + TC 1.4X. Light was limited so ISO was 16,000 for the blue jay and 9000 for the robin. (Shutter speed was likely a bit faster than needed given the image stabilization in the body and lens at 1/640). I used the Lightroom denoise feature but the photos look AI-generated to me. Is this just something to accept when dealing with such low light? Should just be happy to get a usable image at ISO 16,000 at all? Or do folks have tips to maintain a more realistic look?

Thanks!

Hi everyone,

Looking for tips to avoid the artificial appearance that can come with denoising.

These shots were taken with a Nikon Z6III paired with a 400 f/4.5 + TC 1.4X. Light was limited so ISO was 16,000 for the blue jay and 9000 for the robin. (Shutter speed was likely a bit faster than needed given the image stabilization in the body and lens at 1/640). I used the Lightroom denoise feature but the photos look AI-generated to me. Is this just something to accept when dealing with such low light? Should just be happy to get a usable image at ISO 16,000 at all? Or do folks have tips to maintain a more realistic look?

Thanks!

Gear: Nikon Z6 III + Z 400mm f/4.5 + 1.4x TC (560mm)

I initially thought the background on these was going to be too distracting, but the pops of red from the berries have grown on me.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on pose.

Do folks prefer the full side-profile with the eye straight on (Pic 1), or the slightly angled head turn (Pic 2)?

Other feedback and critiques are also very welcome!

I knew the 24-120mm was a versatile walkaround lens, but I’ve been incredibly impressed with its close-focus capabilities. I took these shots at the Butterfly Farm in Noord, Aruba. I was quite happy with the detail without needing to swap to a dedicated macro lens (particularly since I don't have one - and likely wouldn't have taken it on vacation even if I did).

Note: I also own and love the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8. While the Tamron is my go-to for portraits and indoor sports/events, it is nowhere near the Nikkor when it comes to these types of close-up shots. The 24-120mm really can't be beat as a travel lens - and not just because of its size and focal length versatility. I know there are a million posts on this lens already, but wanted to add to the praise.

Gear & Settings:

• Body: Nikon Z6iii
• Lens: NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S
• Settings: 120mm | f/4 | 1/125s | ISO 800
• Shot Info: Handheld | Natural Light

I had my Nikon Z6iii paired with the 24-120 f/4 at the beach, and shot this laughing gull as he swooped in to try to steal some of our lunch. I don't expect to get too many bird shots with this lens, but turned out to be great for the situation since I could fill the frame at 120 mm and it allowed for some background and not just blue sky. Still quite new at this and curious if folks like the first or second shot better.

Hey everyone,

I’ve been a casual photographer for about 25 years, but picked up a Nikon Z6 III about six months ago and have been trying to improve my skills further. I recently got a Nikkor Z 400mm f/4.5 (primarily for high school sports), but I’ve been throwing the 1.4x teleconverter on it as I develop an interest in bird photography.

I was out in Cape Cod two weeks ago and ran into a handful of Common Yellowthroats who were incredibly cooperative.

I'd love any feedback or constructive criticism you have on the composition, editing, or sharpness!

Specs: Nikon Z6 III | Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S + Z TC-1.4x (560mm equivalent)