First a question - is HDR for real or a fad?
Than an example - let's see a fun HDR.
They are for real. They look fantastic when done correctly.
The "ghosting" around the trees can be fixed using Layer Masks in Photoshop, placing a darker sky on top of the HDR version, then selecting it and blending it in using "Refine Edge".
I believe HDR is a serious method to help reveal details in what would otherwise be dark areas of a photo.
PrairieSeasons wrote:
First a question - is HDR for real or a fad?
Than an example - let's see a fun HDR.
The way I understand it, HDR combines photos with varying exposures to produce one image that has all areas properly exposed - something like focus stacking.
I use Photomatix for HDR, and when it finishes processing, it presents me with about a dozen versions of the image, and I can pick the one I want. I can also modify one of the images right in Photomatix or bring it into another program for post processing. The example below is the "grunge" version that Photomax offered me.
It is a very helpful tool. However, it is more than just letting photomatrix or whatever program one is using to merge the images.
They need tweaking in PS or another program to finish them off to a specific sytlize effect.
Both of the above need more work with getting rid of the halo's and some tweaking with curves as they are a bit flat, which is a usual "tweak" for HDR work.
PrairieSeasons wrote:
First a question - is HDR for real or a fad?
Than an example - let's see a fun HDR.
The answer: BOTH
IMHO, the use of HDR to get the exposure more closely to what the human eye sees will outlast the "fad" part of the process, which I think is what most people feel are the "overdone" images. Don't send me any nasty letters, I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the overdone images, I'm just saying its not my favorite.
I use photomatix (great program) to get the exposure I think is more what the eye sees, however, I do have some "overdone" images that I really like. I think it works well for certain subjects, just not all.
You don't have to select one of the processed image..Just go to tone mapping and adjust for your taste. I never use the pre-selects but nothing wrong in doing so.
ward5311 wrote:
You don't have to select one of the processed image..Just go to tone mapping and adjust for your taste. I never use the pre-selects but nothing wrong in doing so.
Right. I'll select one and then play with it - or I might just leave it as is.
Iduno
Loc: Near Tampa Florida
Ansel Adams worked the dynamic range of his photos in the darkroom. We're doing the same thing in the computer darkroom.
Quite true! I love the effect when done right. And if you shoot in raw, you can do a "one shot HDR" to bring out the details - see below.
Thought I also like some of the more dramatic effects - and I occasionally also combine with the Topaz Adjust filters for even more drama.
Iduno wrote:
Ansel Adams worked the dynamic range of his photos in the darkroom. We're doing the same thing in the computer darkroom.
Cades Cove Lane (one-shot HDR)
Arches (HDR with Topaz Spicify filter)
Meredith Images wrote:
Quite true! I love the effect when done right. And if you shoot in raw, you can do a "one shot HDR" to bring out the details - see below.
Thought I also like some of the more dramatic effects - and I occasionally also combine with the Topaz Adjust filters for even more drama.
Iduno wrote:
Ansel Adams worked the dynamic range of his photos in the darkroom. We're doing the same thing in the computer darkroom.
I have been playing HDR for a while now, and your two pictures are wonderful examples of what can be done with it. I especially love the arches.
I thought i would include a few of my favorite HDR'S and see what you think.
Marlborough CT. Underpass
Portland Ct Yellow Lambo
Wethersfield Ct
Rhodge wrote:
I thought i would include a few of my favorite HDR'S and see what you think.
Very nicely done - good variety.
Thank you!
As i am still learning, I think the key is to figure out which subjects looks better more natural or painterly. but its a lot of fun and can bring new life to old photos, especially if you remember to capture them in raw, I alway shoot in raw & jpeg, then you can use a single photo, as i am sure most of you know.
A few more to show the more painterly side of things
Fun"Spooky" Holloween photo
Antique Shop Reflections
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