George Surresh explains how to use a single shot High Dynamic Range technique to boost your landscape images, and then presents one classic example.
I've always believed photography is an art form, so to improve and develop as an artist I want to challenge myself to learn new and exciting techniques to compliment my images. Recently I'd been impressed with the emergence of creative editing methods using High Dynamic Range (HDR) software - especially in regards to landscape photography. High Dynamic Range imaging technique can involve the merging of multiple exposures (bracketed exposures using images taken at a ‘correct’ exposure, as well as both under and over that reading), or it can be done with a single RAW format image. A RAW format file (sometimes called a ‘digital negative’ as if performs the same role as a negative with film) offers an image essentially untouched by in-camera processing that a JPEG image undergoes. Dynamic range is measured in EV (exposure value) differences, from the brightest to the darkest parts of the shot which reveal details. HDR techniques offer an expanded range of luminance between the lightest and darkest areas of the image. Here I’m going to illustrate the basic application of this software on a variety of landscapes - all with just a single exposure.
One could certainly argue that HDR at its essence is an image created with multiple exposures. However, when HDR first emerged a couple of years back I was never drawn to it in the same way as I am now. That wasn’t only due to the fact that I’d come across more bad examples than good – it was mainly that I wasn’t motivated to edit multiple exposures.
Nowadays, however, with advances in software and more practical alternatives - leading HDR software companies have improved their software to allow us produce that HDR 'look' with just one exposure. As a result, a number of photographers have embraced this alternative - giving HDR photography the huge boost it deserves in the world of imaging. In fact, it's become so big that some shooters refer to it as a 'craze'! Photographers, myself included, have quickly realised this exciting photographic alternative can provide an 'X factor' to any suitable candidate image....
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Shooting the Tasmanian Wilderness; Lifting the standard of your landscape images; Profile: Richard Green; Reviews on current ultra-wide zooms; Locations: Kempsey, NSW; Nikon D5100 SLR.