HDR Images

I recently bought a copy of Nik HDR Efex Pro, and I had been struggling to get realistic results in Photomatix. It certainly makes a big difference as it not only shows you a large preview of the HDR image, but has small thumbnails of about 30 different effects that can be easily applied – from straightforward balancing of exposures to get a realistic image to heavily modified treatments that are more “artistic”. So, far, I have no regrets about buying this package, and will continue to take HDR images wherever the lighting is difficult. I usually take three images set 2 stops apart, and use a tripod when I can, although I have had good results by setting the camera to rapidly take the three images with one press of the shutter. On a recent trip to Estonia I took most images using the three exposure technique – some handheld, some on a tripod, and I got some great results. Some examples:

HDR image of the town walls of Tallinn

View from the overlook of the town towards the north east

HDR view of the town of Tallinn after dusk

Heavy HDR processing of Greek Orthodox church