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High Dynamic Range

Over the last few week I have been trialing some HDR ( High Dynamic Range) imaging software, Photomatix in order to get an image that takes in a broader range of lighting conditions.

To me it performs the digital equivalent of the old zone system as it was applied by the likes of Ansel Adams many years ago.
The idea is that final print should be able to show detail in any part of the image, either in highlight or shadow.

In order to do this I shoot at least 3 images each 2 stops apart in exposure. The software then allows careful combining of these exposures to produce one complete image.
In theory that should provide a print that “sees” what your eye can see and also allow for some creative interpretation.

I have discussed HDR in greater detail on the Photogeek podcast.
If you are interested have a listen here.