RMPC
How to do HDR
So what is and HDR, well HDR stands for High Dynamic Range. When we see something with the human eye we can see all the detail in the highlights and in the low lights, but a camera can’t do this so it either over exposes or under exposes the highlights or shadows. A good example of this is a sunset, in a shot of the sunset in order to get the sky correctly metered the foreground will have to be under exposed and vis versa. This is Where HDR’s come in, an HDR is when you compile multiple shots of the same subject but with different levels of light.
Kit
You will need an SLR that can do bracketed shots, most cameras offer a bracketing option but if you don’t have that you can adjust the shutter speed in Manual mode. A tripod is a very good idea but not necessary (but keeping the camera still is a must) and a shutter release is preferable but not required.
Method
It is best to take 3 or more shots, the more the better as you will be able to see more detail. Now you have the images you need to combine the images to make and HDR, such software as Photomatix, Hydra and Photoshop (photoshop can create HDR’s but not tone map which is what gives you the HDR look). I am going to use Photomatix Pro 3 to demonstrate how you create an HDR.
First step is to import the images and to do this you go to the process menu and click Generate HDR (shown right). Now follow the simple steps, if yo did your shot by hand it is best to try different types of alignments to see which one gives the best result. Now go back up to the Process menu and select Tone Mapping. Now you will be presented with a dialog box and a preview of your image adjust and play around until you are happy with the results.
Click process and save out your image and you have your HDR photo. A tip for anyone who is doing this for the first time try not to go over the top and make your images look to processed.
Posted on the August 7th, 2009 | Category: Featured, Tutorials
Copyright
Your images will be sized at a maximum of if horizontal 800px wide, if vertical 700px high and a physical watermark saying RMPC will be placed on the images. You maintain all rights over your images and by submitting are only consenting for them to be used in this years (2009) RMPC. If you need any clarification do not hesitate to email me.
Welcome!
Welcome back to to RMPC. This is the second year of running the competition, last year was very successful with James Bayliss winning.
Changes
This year RMPC has gone through a cosmetic update as well as many changes to the way it is going to be run. This year there will only be a 2 week windows for entries and when entering we are not just asking for photos but are asking a bit about you the photographer. This year we are going to really going to active here on the blog with roughly a post a day during the 2 weeks. The posts will range from tutorials to interviews so there will be something for everyone.
Keep up to date!
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Posted on the January 3rd, 2008 | Category: Featured, Notice