Noise reduction.

[Joe Copalman]

Is anybody working with a noise-reduction tool or technique that they're uber-jazzed about?  I'm currently using the "Reduce Noise" tool in Photoshop Elements - I'm somewhat pleased with the results, but feel like I might be missing out on a tool that does the job even better and with less of a negative impact on overall image quality. 

Any input would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!

[Jay Beckman]

I use Noise Ninja as a plug in with CS4.

I freely admit I don't completely understand everything it can probably do but in conjunction with some masking, it does wonders for smoothing out noisy skies and can also clean up shadow areas.

Noise Reduction in Lightroom is ok but isn't quite as effective as NN.

Of course one of the most effective noise reduction tools is a proper exposure and avoiding the need to raise levels whenever possible.  Raised levels means raised noise.

[Jason Hyatt]

I am with Jay. I use Noise Ninja as a plug-in for PS Elements 6 and although I only use about 5% of its features, it works great for smoothing out skies and reducing noise on a subject where it is needed. I think the lifetime license is like $50.

[jslugman]

Noise Ninja fan as well, plug-in w/ CS4.

[Jay Beckman]

IIRC, there is also a "Stand Alone" version of Noise Ninja

[F-16_fixer]

+1 for Noise Ninja plugin!

[bilwor]

According to Noise Ninja web site you cannot download plug-in only, you have to buy stand alone also. Is there a way to get only the plug-in?

[Bubak]

http://www.neatimage.com/