Applying noise reduction or sharpening effects excessively will actually lead to loss of quality rather than improvement in an image.
Overuse of Noise Reduction
The fine details of an image were lost due to the smoothing effect of too much noise reduction being applied (either in-camera or in post-production). Images will typically have an over-processed, “plastic wrap” or painting look when viewed at full resolution.
Overuse of Sharpening
Excessive sharpening artifacts and/or halos are visible due to too much shapening being applied (either in-camera or in post-production). Image will typically have an over-processed, “crispy” look with accentuated lines and texture when the image is viewed at full resolution.
Overuse of Both Noise Reduction & Sharpening
Images will typically have a combination of both issues mentioned above (i.e., lack of detail with accentuated lines)
We Recommend
Check your camera settings to ensure that the camera is not automatically applying a high level of noise reduction and/or sharpening. Use a low setting or turn off automatic setting all together.
In post-production, selectively apply noise reduction and/or sharpening rather than applying it to the entire image.
Noise reduction and/or sharpening should always be used sparingly.
View images at full resolution (100%), looking for a “smooth” or “crispy” look similar to the image examples shown above. If your image has a similar look, the image most likely is overprocessed.
Shoot in RAW rather than JPEG.
Here are some additional resources you may find helpful:
The Silent Treatment: How to Avoid a Visual ‘Noise’ Rejection
Shuttertalk Live presentations