To reduce noise in a high ISO photo with Lightroom’s AI Denoise, open a raw file in the Develop module, choose Denoise in the Detail panel, set an amount, and let Lightroom create a new cleaned-up copy. Apply it before other edits and check your version’s current options, since features can change between releases.
Before You Begin
AI Denoise works on raw files, so shoot in raw if you expect to use high ISO. The tool analyzes the image and removes grain while trying to keep fine detail. It usually produces a new file next to the original, so make sure you have free disk space and a little patience, as processing can take time on large files.
Step-by-Step
- Pick an image shot at a high ISO and open it in the Develop module.
- Fix white balance and basic exposure first, since lifted shadows show more noise.
- Open the Detail panel and select Denoise.
- Set the Amount. A moderate value is a sensible baseline, then raise it only if grain remains.
- Check the result, zoomed to 100 percent, for fine detail such as hair, feathers or text.
- Click Enhance and wait for the new file to appear in your catalog.
- Apply other edits, such as masks and sharpening, to the new file.
Choosing an Amount
| Situation | General guidance |
|---|---|
| Mild noise at moderately high ISO | Lower amount keeps natural texture |
| Heavy noise in dark shadows | Higher amount, then compare detail |
| Fine textures such as fur | Use less, and add careful sharpening |
| Smooth areas such as sky | Higher values are usually fine |
Tips for Better Results
- Apply Denoise before sharpening so the tool does not amplify grain.
- Reduce the manual Luminance noise sliders if you use AI Denoise, so detail is not softened twice.
- Compare before and after at several zoom levels, not just on a small screen.
- Add a touch of grain back if the result looks too smooth.
- Batch the process for a set of similar images only after you are happy with one.
Limits to Expect
The tool cannot recover detail that was never recorded. Very high ISO files can still look soft or smooth, and the best result comes from getting a good exposure in the first place.
FAQ
Does it work on JPEG files?
It is designed for raw files, and support for other formats varies by version. Check the current Lightroom help pages to confirm.
Is it better than older noise sliders?
Many photographers find it cleaner on difficult files, but results depend on the image. Test both approaches on your own photos and keep what looks best.
The Short Version
Open a raw file, correct basic exposure, apply Denoise at a moderate amount, and check detail at full size. Then sharpen and finish editing on the new file.
