iso500 in daylight is a bit keen. Sometimes.
With the larger versions I could certainly see some digital noise, semi-easily introduced at iso500 on a D40... (In the right light conditions / with shade)
I'd love to see the larger versions again.
I shoot RAW pretty much all the time, now. When you say "When you get your confidence up" Shooting RAW makes it so much easier, with the right digital developing knowledge, do correct white balance and so on.. Shooting RAW though, will not help your noise factor.
Would you consider emailing me one of the larger ones to have a look at? -
simon@gtvone.com if you like (Understand if not)
Sime