Here's a quick HDR tip: Play with colors to create a different feeling of an HDR image.

My standard HDR image (below) was OK, just OK.

To make the image pop, I used the Color Blast filter in Topaz Adjust (opening picture for this post).

For a more subdued feel, I applied a Pastel Filter in Nik Software’s Color Efex Pro (below).

Below is some info on the photo and the HDR process and plug-ins that I used.

Title: San Blas Resort

Location: San Blas Islands, Panama

Exposures: 0, +2, -2 EV

Processing: Nik HDR Efex Pro, Nik Software Color Efex Pro/Pastel filter, Topaz Adjust/Spicify filter.

Gear: Canon 7D, Canon 17-40mm lens, Induro Tripod and Induro ball head.

Info:Induro Carbon 8x Tripod CT-214 (Black)

Info:Induro BHD2 Ballhead (Black)

For more info (and discounts) on HDR plug-ins and programs, click here.

Yes! I took this picture on my recent Panama photo workshop. Scroll down to see previous post about the workshop.

Explore the light,

Rick

P.S. Which image do you like best? Standard HDR, pastel or color blast? Also, would you like to see more quick tips like this? Let me know by posting a comment here.