Unusable images with Canon R5 and 100-500mm RF lens

Photo67 wrote:

ok folks. Thanks for all the thoughts so far. This is the unedited version. I think the suggestion of noise reduction software may be the issue. I don't do much processing at all and only have photoshop, lightroom and was trying DeNoise, but admit I've never used it before and put it on an auto setting. The noise is horrible, and sadly this trip was the first time I used the R5 on a regular basis. Typically, I'm guilty of underexposing, causing additional noise when I try to lighten shadows, so was trying to overexpose a bit w/o blowing out highlights. It was dark and raining, I knew I needed at least f9 to get the three bears as they changed positions, and faster shutter speed because the cubs had been playing. I honestly don't remember using the 100-400mm lens on this trip, but I may have for a few images while I let someone else try out my 100-500. I'll check more of the images too, but I'm thinking it was the noise reduction software. In this image, the cub's face (on the right) appears sharper but horrifically noisy. I hope I will be able to salvage them. Thanks to all who are taking the time to try and help.

My advice, don't spend too much time trying to save a photo like this. While the moment had opportunities, it looks to have been missed in camera. I generally give a questionable shot a run through noise reduction and then the required crop and make a judgement call on whether its worth spending any more time on.

As far as what you could have done better in the field, I would have shot it wide open at 5.6 allowing a lower ISO. Additionally, I would have further lowered the overall exposure by a third or two, getting me down to around 1600 ISO. F/5.6 would have been plenty of DOF at around 30-60 feet worth at what I estimate to be a 200-300 foot distance. That would have essentially cured the noise issue, but it still leaves a massive crop.

Massive crops are the death of many good shots. I know I'm preaching to the choir, but this is a classic example of trying to put make-up on a pig. I've done it too, and will likely do it again. But you just have to accept, 9 times out of 10 it isn't going to work out.

BTW, I'm jealous. Would have loved to make that trip. Better luck next time.