Using HDR Wisely
Sep 14th 2009StevenLandscape & Photography & Tips and Techniques
For those who don’t know, HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a modern photo technique where multiple exposures of the same image are blended together with software to create an image with a higher dynamic range of luminances between the light and dark areas of the image. When used like it was used in this image, HDR creates a scene that more closely resembles what we actually see with our own eyes.
Many people use HDR differently than how I use it. They use HDR to create over saturated, surreal looking images that are extremely unrealistic. Personally, I don’t care for images that have that “HDR look” to them. But if that’s how they want their images to look, then that’s their business, not mine.
The sad thing is, these fantasy pictures have given HDR a reputation that it doesn’t deserve. HDR can be a great tool for photographers when used correctly. The image above is a good example. I contains 5 images blended together. Each image has a full stop difference in them. The sequence is -2, -1, n, +1, +2. Without HDR the shadowed areas of the mountain have very little detail in them. But with HDR the detail comes out giving the image a more natural look.
I don’t use HDR a lot. But every now and then I come across a situation where I need some shadow details or I need to keep the sky from getting blown out and I’ve found that HDR become a great tool then.
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