First Attempt at HDR

[Dark Star]

With Pete's article and the general buzz about HDR I had to have a go - I know its not perfect (its hand held for a start and I've combined 3 shots) but I'm quite chuffed with it. taken at the grounds of a crematorium in Leatherhead yesterday.

So I thought I'd share it. Comments welcome as ever.

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/data/819/crem_hdr_12.jpg

[Double_Agent]

Not sure what you were focussing on but nothing seems to be that clear. Looking at the left side of the photo, the tree and brambles look wrong and lack clarity. The grass across the left looks blurry.

I like the colours in it and the composition, just lacks something in execution.

What settings were used?

[Dark Star]

Yeah agreed Double Agent - this was an HDR composite of 3 handheld shots (-2,0,+2 exact camera settings on my home PC - I'll pop them up later) which I've aligned manually in Photomatix - its obvious that either a Tripod is needed or I should have done it from 1 RAW file (which I might have a crack at later). The blur is the alignment of 3 handheld shots - perhaps a premature posting on my part but I'm still quite excited about the overall effect I've achieved and they will improve!

Thanks for the comments btw - it all helps!

[Double_Agent]

Over zealous in posting and hope that it didn't come across harshly. I like the approach to HDR and the technique itself. I just think that the 3 shots used in this instance doesn't do the picture or the technique the justice that you deserve to give it.

Maybe have another go with just the one image to see what it comes out like.

I am going to have to give this a go when I get chance and then you can rip my thread to shreds as well.

[Dark Star]

Thats okay - I was perhaps over keen to get something up there as I find the results quite exciting even though imperfect - if I get a chance to work on the RAW tonight I'll swap the one above for that!

[CT]

That's not bad. When you're doing the tone mapping keep one eye on those halos around the trees which are a real give-away, not that you're trying to hide the fact it's HDR, but it spoils the result. :)

[Dark Star]

Thanks CT - I think I was over eager to display the results of my toying around....deep breath and try again! However I do like the 'other worldy' look of HDR at this level.

[Janice]

So what is the actual POINT of HDR. I know it's fun and everything, but what type of image would you look at out of your camera where you would say.."hmmm.... that needs HDR" ?
Is it to darken an overlight sky mostly?

[CT]

The point of HDR is to try and show a greater range of tones in one shot than would normally be possible given the range of luninosity which our sensors can resolve.

It's most useful in landscape work where used carefully it can show a range of tones otherwise not possible. I find it really effective too on masonry and stonework. I don't think it's something you want to be using on peeps unless you're after a particular effect, as it would be rather obvious.

[Dark Star]

Thats a good question Janice. For me its the slightly unreal effect it gives the image - almost painterly - its a step to one side of pure photography in my book - what I've seen so far (and thats only really from the stars who inhabit this site) intrigues and fascinates me (sorry if this sounds a bit poncey! :eek: ) and I've been dying to have a go!!!

I'm pretty sure it can be overdone and I'm also pretty sure that others will give you a much better answer than this! :D