3 megapixel shot from a 6 megapixel camera

Hi All,

Can anyone tell me how Image Resolution is done for a Digital Camera ?

For example, with a 6 mp camera, when I switch it to give me a 3 mp shot,
does it simply switch off the outer photosites on the imaging sensor and
give me a rectangular array of photosites in the centre of the required size
(kinda like digital zoom).

The reason I ask is, if I wish to capture a shot with less noise, do I get
any improvement (noise reduction) by shooting below the cameras ultimate
resolution capacity ?


Thanks,

Neil

 

Can anyone tell me how Image Resolution is done for a Digital Camera ?

If it just used the centre portion of the sensor, I guess it would be like
having a different lens. Your image would be cropped and appear 'zoomed in'.
The focal length of the lens and the size of the sensor are linked.
I think most cameras combine pixels when you set them to lower resolutions.
You do get less noise but only because there are fewer pixels and reduced
detail. Overall, I doubt you'd benefit from doing this.

But... give it a try! Or get noise reduction software.

Androo