Setting Camera Picture Quality

On 01/09/2011 05:03 AM, DaveS wrote:
I have recently acquired a Canon 60D as a replacement for my 30D.
I have read messages here which explain that increased numbers of pixels
on a given sensor size will lead to increased noise in high ISO shots.

I'm deciding what settings to use for picture quality - RAW (18 Mp), M
RAW (10 Mp), or S RAW (4.5 Mp). The question in my mind is, can I reduce
noise at high ISO by capturing fewer pixels?

I took shots at RAW and S RAW at ISO 12,800. To me they seem to have
about the same level of noise (too much!). Can this be correct, or is my
test technique faulty?

Noise is related to photosite sizes (hence total pixels on the sensor).
Shoot at the best quality. Noise at 12800 ISO is expected.

--
Bertrand