HDR . . . The Right Way?

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Today I'd like to talk about doing HDR the right way. You see, there is no "right way" to do HDR. :-)

I think my friend and HDR expert Trey Ratcliff agrees.

It's all up to you: realistic to artistic . . . and a million variations in between.

Here's an example. The opening image for this post has lots of detail - created by apply Topaz Adjust/Spicify to the HDR image I created in Nik's HDR Efex Pro. 

The image below is soft - created by apply Topaz Adjust/Smooth and Flat to the HDR image I created in Nik's HDR Efex Pro.  


So follow your heart. Do what you like, as Ginger Baker wrote :-). What? You don't know Ginger Baker and "Do  What You Like" in 5/4?


Above are my original files for my "Red Stairwell" image.

As you no doubt noticed, my original set of images is off kilter. That’s because I had to cram my camera and tripod into the corner of the stairwell in the Colony Hotel in Delray Beach, Florida. I had to set up the shot without looking through the viewfinder. I used my camera's self-timer to fire the shutter.

By using a very wide angle lens (14mm), I knew I could creatively copy my final HDR image without losing any important areas.

I'll be talking about stuff like this in my next iPad app: Rick Sammon's HDR Portfolio, which is due out in several weeks.

Click here for a discount on HDR Efex Pro and info on Topaz Adjust.

Explore the light,
Rick

Be My Guest Monday 2.7.11: David Leveen

It's "Be My Guest Monday," the day of the week that's turned over to a talented guest blogger for a quick tip.

Today's guest: David Leveen


Why and What? That should be your video project mantra. “Why” am I making this video and “What” do I want my audience to walk away with.

Keeping the two W’s always in mind while brainstorming, creating, and distributing your project will make for a success for both you and your intended audience.
The picture included here is from a promotional video and DVD done for a popular local restaurant, Umami Cafe in Croton on Hudson, NY. Click the picture to see the video snippet!

The “Why” for this video was strictly promotional. For the Christmas season the owners and executive chef of the restaurant wanted to make a “how-to” video of 4 of their most popular dishes and thus extend Umami’s brand outside of the restaurant.

The “What” they wanted their audience to take away was how to make the restaurants signature dishes in their home. The feedback was great as people mentioned how much fun and easy the recipes were to make at home every time they came into the restaurant.

So the two W’s are there to help and begin the process of making a successful video.

Hey! Visit my site when you get a chance.