A pixel circuit includes a photosensor and a floating diffusion node. A circuit is coupled to the floating diffusion node, for selectively providing a pixel output signal to a column line. A reset circuit, which resets the floating diffusion node, is configured to be activated by the column line. A pullup circuit is included for controlling the reset circuit through a signal on the column line. A discharge circuit, which is separate from the reset circuit, is used for discharging the pixel output signal on the column line. The discharge circuit includes a transistor having a first source/drain terminal coupled to the column line and a second source/drain terminal coupled to a fixed voltage level. The gate of the transistor activates the discharging of the column line.