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DPChallenge Forums >> Tips, Tricks, and Q&A >> Using Un-Sharp Mask
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Nikon D300s
Nikon AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED
 08/01/2003 09:03:08 PM · #1
I hade a friend at the Brooks Institute show me how to properly use un-sharp mask, think you guys would like to hear it (works great for prints). Set the threshold to 0, run the amount % to 180 and adjust the radius to the point right before you start seeing a ring around white objects. At this point set the amount % back to 100 and let it go. I am amazed with the results.
Canon EOS-1000D Rebel XS
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
 08/01/2003 11:08:06 PM · #2
Why is this method better then other settings? Do you know the reason why it's better?

I've heard other methods such as: Make several passes at lower settings to achieve the best results but I have no idea which is best. I'll try your settings. Thanks for the info I'll try it out!
Canon EOS R5
Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS
 08/02/2003 03:50:35 PM · #3
There's really no one formula or set of parameters for unsharp mask that works for everything. The beauty of unsharp mask is its versatility.
The one thing I keep seeing though is "set the threshold to zero". All my experience tells me that in virtually all cases this will not yield the best result. What it does is amplify luminance noise.
Reducing the threshold will yield better sharpening of real edges, therefore minimzing the threshold without amplifying noise is always my goal.
If the average luminance noise in your photo is 2.5 levels, the threshold should be set to at least 3 or the noise will be accentuated. Most consumer digital cameras have lumininance noise of about 1.5-4 levels. What works for one camera or setting may not work for another.
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