My first HDR image

[Guest]

I haven't looked into creating HDR images before but found some free software called Luminance HDR and got it to process an image. Could be better I'm sure but just a first attempt:

 

[annie]

i think it's lovely....

[Phil]

Is it bracketed or a single shot HDR?

[Guest]

I started with the one RAW file and saved three .dng files at bracketed exposures (-1, 0, +1). 

[annie]

well i just had my first go with three bracketed shots..............i think that's the end of that little project..rofl..

[Guest]

Annie, it may look a bit awful until you choose the right effect (click the best thumbnail on right hand side) and click 'tonemap' (on the left) to process.

[colinb]

Mark it looks fine but without seeing a single image its difficult to tell any gains?

 

Annie - why? 

 

couple of tips -

if you are using 3 brackets manual focus is best,

always use raw files 

the 'convert to HDR' within photoshop is rubbish, search the web there is several 'free' software tools out there.

Go easy on the luminance/lighting control and try to avoid 'halos' around trees, building etc.

and after you have done the 'hdr' bit you may need to adjust levels/curves in photoshop and even tone down the saturation!

[annie]

i will have another go....

[Guest]

Here's the original shot:

 

[colinb]

Annie if you don't get on with luminance software try http://www.easyhdr.com/download-basic.php it is basic but it works

 

I use photomatix pro 4.2 which I find very easy and gives you so much control over the final image.

[Phil]

the 'convert to HDR' within photoshop is rubbish!

I'm going to disagree with you there Colin. I've recently watched an excellent tutorial that shows just how to use the tool.

I'm stuck at work tonight but I'll dig it out tomorrow.

[colinb]

I'm going to disagree with you there Colin. I've recently watched an excellent tutorial that shows just how to use the tool.

I'm stuck at work tonight but I'll dig it out tomorrow.

Phil - I probably should say as far as up to CS3 goes, I found it far to automated. But I will look at your tutorial.

 

Mark I think you have done a good job with what you have, hdr is great for bringing out detail in the sky but the sea mist seems to have scotched that idea although you could try a 2 stop version.

 

I don't know how close these ruins are to you but this is the sort of place I would be going back at sunset/dawn winter summer etc as it looks a good location.

[annie]

thats one big difference there mark....i must persevere then...

[MattGrey]

I use photomatix for HDR.  I never use auto bracketing but tend to take a series of manual shots (about 12) and check the exposure back on the laptop with Lightroom.  Once I have picked at least 3 images that encompass the tonal range I want I then process these in Photomatix, tone map, import back into Lightroom for levels/contrast and general adjustments then back to CS2 to sharpen. 

 

I like photomatix for processing HDRs and it is si simple to use with sliders that give an instant preview, and it is fairly quick too.

[Phil]

Phil - I probably should say as far as up to CS3 goes

 

Ah, the tutorial is for CS6.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urtp6_IhP04

[Phonantiphon]

I like what you've done with that.

Good tip on the HDR software - (I thought), just downloaded to have a play with it.