HDR Photography


Ok so just what is HDR? Well, it stands for High Dynamic Range but what is that exactly? A normal camera can only capture a limited range of tones from light to dark depending on the exposure used. In high contrast scenes in particular, a compromise has to be made and we lose detail in either the lighter or darker areas. It is up to the photographer to decide whether to bias the exposure for light or shadow. HDR gets around this by combining a bracketed set of exposures and retaining the most of the tonal detail from each. So much the technical explanation but how do we do it?

Assuming you already have a camera and computer etc the first thing you are going to need for HDR photography is some software. The good news is that there is a selection of completely free software on the internet, just Google "free hdr software" and take your pick, try to find some user reviews before you download. Be warned though, as with all free stuff some of it may disappoint and you may have to try a few programs before you find one you like. There is also a selection of programs for sale which are typically easier to use and have more features. One of the most popular is Photomatix, the image below was created in Photomatix Essentials which costs around £25.

Right, let's get down to brass tacks. You have found a suitable scene to photograph, now what?

You are going to want to take a set of 3 to 5 bracketed exposures at about +/- 1EV. Don't panic! All that means is that you want one properly exposed image and if you are using 3 images,one over exposed by one full stop and one under exposed by the same amount. In a set of 5 images you will need 2 more under/over exposed by 2 full stops. Most modern camers will be able to do this for you, just have a look in your manual for the bracketing setting. If you are going to do it manually then I recommend leaving your aperture unchanged if you can, this will mean your depth of field will remain constant. Using a tripod is also best so that each image is framed identically. HDR software will allow you to merge your images and play around with the look of your final photo. This is always going to be a matter of individual taste and will range from the fairly subtle treatment above to the very surreal images that HDR can create.

Here at Images By George we specialize in portraiture and wedding photography so you might think we don't use HDR but imagine the inside of a church or chapel with those amazing stained glass windows, chandeliers, gilt fixtures etc. HDR has given us new ways to add a little something special here and there in our albums. It can do the same for you too, allowing you to look at old scenes in new ways.