HDR

[stix]

Any HDR enthusiasts want to share some tips and tricks, just starting to explore.

[ldmelsa]

the biggest mistake people make is thinking that hdr can make a good pic out of bad light
please don't fall into that trap

[bwana]

You might find something useful here. http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?t=108483

EDIT - To summarise - use Photomatix Pro.

[stix]

the biggest mistake people make is thinking that hdr can make a good pic out of bad light
please don't fall into that trap

Lol I am actually no fan of HDR, just feel it would be worthwhile knowing how to do

[stix]

You might find something useful here. http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?t=108483

EDIT - To summarise - use Photomatix Pro.

Currently using Qtpfsgui - open source seems pretty useful

[bwana]

Lol I am actually no fan of HDR, just feel it would be worthwhile knowing how to doWhy not? When done well it's amazing.

What camera are you using?
Currently using Qtpfsgui - open source seems pretty usefulI wanted to try it just now but it keeps crashing on start up so I'll give it a pass.

[stix]

Why not? When done well it's amazing.

What camera are you using?

lol Don't get me wrong amazing results to be had with HDR, i am just not a huge fan of too much post production on an image....

I use a 350D - would love more but i have more important things to buy

[bwana]

lol Don't get me wrong amazing results to be had with HDR, i am just not a huge fan of too much post production on an image....

I use a 350D - would love more but i have more important things to buyNothing wrong with the 350D. I was just checking to see if you hadnt decided to make life a little more difficult (as far as HDR goes) by buying something like the Nikon D40.

[stix]

Nothing wrong with the 350D. I was just checking to see if you hadnt decided to make life a little more difficult (as far as HDR goes) by buying something like the Nikon D40.

Very much a canon man. Shoot raw, edit in lightroom. publish with pixelpost.

The last bits a lie, i haven't uploaded anything new in months. :D

[SlinkyMike]

Don't know very much about it TBH but something that I have been wondering is: can you use the same shot but emulate 3 different exposures using software?

Should maybe set aside some time this wkend to try it out...

...obviously: I use the D40 bwana mentions so no exposure bracketing.

[koffiejunkie]

Currently using Qtpfsgui - open source seems pretty useful


I wanted to try it just now but it keeps crashing on start up so I'll give it a pass.

Forget about trying it, I can't even pronounce it.

[bwana]

Don't know very much about it TBH but something that I have been wondering is: can you use the same shot but emulate 3 different exposures using software? You can do - doesnt work quite as well though.
...obviously: I use the D40 bwana mentions so no exposure bracketing.Bummer. I cant figure out why they would leave that out but they did.

[koffiejunkie]

...obviously: I use the D40 bwana mentions so no exposure bracketing.

Nothing stops you from doing it manually. Just stick the camera on a tripod, make sure it's sturdy so that you pushing buttons don't move it around. And even if it does shift a little, most current software can compensate for that.

[stix]

Don't know very much about it TBH but something that I have been wondering is: can you use the same shot but emulate 3 different exposures using software?

Should maybe set aside some time this wkend to try it out...

...obviously: I use the D40 bwana mentions so no exposure bracketing.

If you shotting in RAW, take a perfectly exposed shot and then in post take it a stop down and a stop up - not quite the same but it does give you a similar feel

[SlinkyMike]

I cant figure out why they would leave that out but they did.

...either, it is fairly irksome.
If anything more shots is better - maybe I just suck at it but I get the best shots when I stop thinking too much and just shoot like crazy, maybe there is something in that or maybe its just monkeys and typewriters. :o

I do wonder what the possibilities of a firmware update or hack are with regard to adding that feature though.

EDIT: there is a great tutorial here: http://www.diyphotography.net/creating-that-dave-hill-look for creating 'that Dave Hill look' which can be exercised with just one exposure. I have tried it with several portraits and it does add something interesting, still undecided if I like the look though.

[bwana]

Nothing stops you from doing it manually. Just stick the camera on a tripod, make sure it's sturdy so that you pushing buttons don't move it around. And even if it does shift a little, most current software can compensate for that.Not thing stops him from doing it manually but being able to fire off three or more shots in rapid succession means there is less chance for subject movement. The software can compensate up to a point but at a price.

Still, a tripod is also a good idea regardless of if you're using AEB or not - as is a remote trigger (or you can use your timer). :)

And remember to adjust the shutter speed . . . . not the aperture. :D

[SlinkyMike]

Nothing stops you from doing it manually. Just stick the camera on a tripod, make sure it's sturdy so that you pushing buttons don't move it around. And even if it does shift a little, most current software can compensate for that.


If you shotting in RAW, take a perfectly exposed shot and then in post take it a stop down and a stop up - not quite the same but it does give you a similar feel

Definitely going to give it a bash - cheers!

EDIT: @bwana: well acquainted with tripod + timer combo after countless 'shaky' tripod shots and much head scratching!

[stix]

And remember to adjust the shutter speed . . . . not the aperture. :D

ahem....well spotted. :D

[koffiejunkie]

EDIT: @bwana: well acquainted with tripod + timer combo after countless 'shaky' tripod shots and much head scratching!

Hehe, I use the timer even with the remote trigger. My tripod is rated for 500g less than my camera+lens weighs...

[ldmelsa]

If you shotting in RAW or JPEG, take a perfectly exposed shot and then in post take it a stop down and a stop up - not quite the same but it does give you a similar feel

;)

[bwana]

;)Good luck with that ;)
Don't know very much about it TBH but something that I have been wondering is: can you use the same shot but emulate 3 different exposures using software? I just did this one quickly

Before:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3271/2749193861_c72e31b03a.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/bwanarsa/2749193861/)

After:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3267/2870433645_e51645fbcd.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/bwanarsa/2870433645/)

[ldmelsa]

Good luck with that ;)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3001/2804347222_ee93e4fcc3.jpg

[koffiejunkie]

Geez, and there I was thinking that's what Superia looks like :(

[bwana]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3001/2804347222_ee93e4fcc3.jpgWell, at the very least you seem to have dispelled the myth that film has a higher dynamic range than digital. :)

EDIT - so how did you manage to create an HDR image from scanned images? Did you use either of the techniques described in post #2 (http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/forums/thread6.htm)?

[ldmelsa]

Geez, and there I was thinking that's what Superia looks like :(

It does. The shop gives me an unadjusted file. It's like raw in digicam terms.


Well, at the very least you seem to have dispelled the myth that film has a higher dynamic range than digital. :)

Print film has a wider latitude. So what? Digital has a screen on the back of the cam. It's slide film that's tricky. It's easy to get the exposure right with digital and print film.


so how did you manage to create an HDR image from scanned images?

The shop's scanner has a big latitude. That's all. :)

[bwana]

It does. The shop gives me an unadjusted file. It's like raw in digicam terms.and that unadjusted file is a jpeg? Are they/you using Silverfast?

[ldmelsa]

and that unadjusted file is a jpeg?
Yes.


Are they/you using Silverfast?
No. It's a Noritsu minilab. It uses it's own software.

You're looking at the light source:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2870596943_5ae00d3eb4.jpg
Program mode +2 exposure comp.


But, who takes a photo like that anyway?

All these look the same, regardless of the acquisition format:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/canon300d/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/fujisuperia/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/kodakgold/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/agfafilm/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/canon5d/

[koffiejunkie]

All these look the same, regardless of the acquisition format:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/canon300d/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/fujisuperia/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/kodakgold/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/agfafilm/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/canon5d/

Well, that's the thing with Photoshop. You can make anything look whichever way you like. Sit doesn't matter what you shoot with, right?

Question is, where do you like to spend more time: behind the computer or behind the camera?

[ldmelsa]

You can make anything look whichever way you like.
No. It can't. If the exposure was wrong, it's stuffed.



Question is, where do you like to spend more time: behind the computer or behind the camera?
The camera.

[koffiejunkie]

No. It can't. If the exposure was wrong, it's stuffed.

You're going to hate me for this, but if you were shooting raw, you wouldn't necessarily be...

[bwana]

But, who takes a photo like that anyway?

All these look the same, regardless of the acquisition format:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/canon300d/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/fujisuperia/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/kodakgold/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/agfafilm/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ldmelsa/tags/canon5d/Maybe I'm still half asleep but you lost me on the point your making. :confused:
You're going to hate me for this, but if you were shooting raw, you wouldn't necessarily be...lol :)

[SlinkyMike]

Thought I'd report back after all the suggestions etc. on Friday...
I used Photoshop's NEF import dialogue to import the following RAW (NEF) image 3 times, one at the original exposure, one at -1 and one at +2 (just looked better this way - range seemed wider than -1 to +1):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30731915@N02/2877925937/

Used Photomatix to create a HDR image from the three versions of the image, tone mapped with the following result (also cropped slightly):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30731915@N02/2877925939/

The images I have uploaded are fairly small and one way or another they are not as saturated as they look on my 32" monitor or my MBP monitor (think I need to look at the calibration settings) but I had a good time with this and I think they serve to illustrate that a fairly good HDR image can be generated in this fashion. Maybe not as 'out there' as some of the HDR stuff I have seen but I feel the tone mapped one is a very nice enhancement.

[bwana]

Thought I'd report back after all the suggestions etc. on Friday...
I used Photoshop's NEF import dialogue to import the following RAW (NEF) image 3 times, one at the original exposure, one at -1 and one at +2 (just looked better this way - range seemed wider than -1 to +1):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30731915@N02/2877925937/

Used Photomatix to create a HDR image from the three versions of the image, tone mapped with the following result (also cropped slightly):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30731915@N02/2877925939/

The images I have uploaded are fairly small and one way or another they are not as saturated as they look on my 32" monitor or my MBP monitor (think I need to look at the calibration settings) but I had a good time with this and I think they serve to illustrate that a fairly good HDR image can be generated in this fashion. Maybe not as 'out there' as some of the HDR stuff I have seen but I feel the tone mapped one is a very nice enhancement.Nice - although heavy saturated in Safari it's much more sedate in Firefox :)

IMO often the harder it is to tell its HDR the better it is.

[SlinkyMike]

Nice - although heavy saturated in Safari it's much more sedate in Firefox :)

Thanks:)

...Any idea why that is? Just had my knickers in a twist over it. :confused:

[bwana]

Incase ppl are wondering whats the difference:

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/picture.php?albumid=19&pictureid=755

@SlinkyMike - if you'd prefer I not use your photo as an example please let me know and I'll remove it immediately.
Thanks:)

...Any idea why that is? Just had my knickers in a twist over it. :confused:Safari is presenting the photo the way its supposed to be as it respects ICC profiles. You can tell the most recent version of FF to the same by going about:config and changing gfx.color_management.enabled to true.

BTW - if you're looking for a calibration I can vouch for the Spyder2Express.

[SlinkyMike]

No worries abut the picture - I'll consult the subjects though and get back to you if they have issues.

Great tip about the Firefox switch (gfx.color_management.enabled = true) wish I'd known that a few minutes ago, would have saved me a few 'face-palms' :D

The more saturated version (a-la Safari/FF once colour is management enabled) is as I finally left it at about 12am last night, eyes were a little tired and dry by that stage, what do people think? Over saturated?

I think maybe a bit...

[koffiejunkie]

I believe that FireFox 3.1 will have colour profile support enabled by default.

[stix]

My first attempt at an HDR image

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=7047&cat=500

[bwana]

My first attempt at an HDR image

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=7047&cat=500Funky :D

I dont like the way photoshop handles HDR though. Have you tried one of the dedicated apps?

[Just_Ice]

I gave it a shot...
Tried with 3 and 5 shots, now this is using a point and shoot, while sitting on the ground and using my knee as a tripod. Result: Moderate success. It was slightly blurry cause of the camera moving around slightly but it wasnt too bad. What I need to improve on though is figuring out what each of those sliders and other adjustments in Phtomatix Pro 3 do. It will take some time, but I will figure it out. Is photomatix the easiest and best program to use for HDR?

[Just_Ice]

Ok so here is a look at my very first HDR pic, using a point and shoot camera. It was a mission! Its not a great pic as such (scenery, objects etc) but thats not what I wanted. I just wanted to try HDR for myself, and the result was moderate success. Here it is http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_ice/2912149289/sizes/m/ .

[stix]

Funky :D

I dont like the way photoshop handles HDR though. Have you tried one of the dedicated apps?

Done in phtotmatix to generate the HDR and then shopped in some contrast and curves.

[bwana]

Done in phtotmatix to generate the HDR and then shopped in some contrast and curves.ah - I see. :)

[stix]

Another attempt. Still working out a lot of the photomatix settings. But i feel i am starting to get there


View (http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=7320&cat=500)

[stix]

// The upload here really seems to smooth and darken the image in the processing ?!?

[ToxicBunny]

Thats actually a really awesome photo stix....

looks v v good.

[koffiejunkie]

+1 That's a pretty cool image.

[stix]

:D Thanks....i really need to get a calibrated screen to work on...looks *** here

[ldmelsa]

do you have crt or lcd?

it is critical that you calibrate an lcd

[bwana]

// The upload here really seems to smooth and darken the image in the processing ?!?Yeah - it really punishes the pixels. Rather use flickr and embed the photo directly.
do you have crt or lcd?

it is critical that you calibrate an lcdYou have to calibrate any monitor - on LCD is you only need do it occasionally instead of on a regular basis with a crt. :)

[stix]

// processed on a dying laptop
// CRT will be added on the side shortly

[stix]

Yeah - it really punishes the pixels. Rather use flickr and embed the photo directly.

I think this is the way forward

[bwana]

I think this is the way forwardI prefer to embed the medium size image and link to the flickr page itself.
// processed on a dying laptop
// CRT will be added on the side shortlyUnless you have a colourimeter I'm not sure a crt is going to be worth it - unless you having one lying around.

[stix]

Got access to a spider....is that gonna help?

And i do happen to have the CRT lying around

[bwana]

Got access to a spider....is that gonna help?

And i do happen to have the CRT lying aroundYeah - they work great (I have one :))

[ToxicBunny]

Finally got myself into gear and started playing with hdr. I'll post my attempts when I get to work tom

[marine1]

Look forward to it.

[bwana]

Finally got myself into gear and started playing with hdr. I'll post my attempts when I get to work tomNice - did you opt for the bracketed exposure method or the cheaters method of three exposures from one RAW file? I use both ;)

[marine1]

Bwana teach me please. Tell me how on both please

[bwana]

Bwana teach me please. Tell me how on both pleaseHave a look at this first. http://twipphoto.com/archives/149

[ToxicBunny]

for now the cheaters method... But I'm starting to use bracketing as well...

The photos aren't v surreal, I just think they look nice :)

[bwana]

for now the cheaters method... But I'm starting to use bracketing as well...

The photos aren't v surreal, I just think they look nice :)Bracketing is better - what camera are you using?

EDIT - Sony A200?

EDIT2 - the more realistic they look the better as far as I'm concerned.

[marine1]

Hmmm bracketing, will have to read up on that for my alpha

[bwana]

Hmmm bracketing, will have to read up on that for my alphaThe more the merrier. My canon only does three. :(

Also download the trial of photomatix pro from here http://www.hdrsoft.com/

[ToxicBunny]

Yup the a200 which limits me on auto bracketting to 0.7ev but I'm getting the hang of doing it manually

[marine1]

What do you mean only does three? How do I tell what mine does?
A700

[bwana]

What do you mean only does three? How do I tell what mine does?
A700Mine will take the normal exposure plus one that is higher and another that is lower. I set it for two stops either side.

And remember - you want to set the camera to aperture priority so that only the exposure is adjusted otherwise the depth of field changes.

EDIT - the a700 does 3 or 5 - choose 5. :)

[marine1]

Hold on you want to set the camera to "A" (aperture so only the exposure is adjusted? Wouldnt you just use manual setting? DOF will change when you start changing the aperture not so?

[bwana]

Hold on you want to set the camera to "A" (aperture so only the exposure is adjusted? Wouldnt you just use manual setting? DOF will change when you start changing the aperture not so?There's no need to set it for fully manual but there's nothing stopping you. As long as the aperture is constant you'll be fine.

[marine1]

So mine has steps of 0-5

[bwana]

So mine has steps of 0-5Right - you want as many as possible. I'd experiment with how far apart you have them. Start off with one (-2 -1 0 +1 +2) or two (-4 -2 0 +2 +4) If you can do 1.5 that might be even better.

[marine1]

Bwana just a quick question please? So basically set to that, it would take 5 different photos of the same image at different exposures?

[bwana]

Bwana just a quick question please? So basically set to that, it would take 5 different photos of the same image at different exposures?Exactly.

[marine1]

Automatically? You dont have to manually take 5 photos?

[bwana]

Automatically? You dont have to manually take 5 photos?Not sure how it works with Sony but with my canon I set it to continues mode and let it fire away.

[koffiejunkie]

Speaking of which, I'm sure I remember in the beginning when I set my camera to AEB, I squeezed the shutter only once, and it snapped all three shots. Now I have to keep it until all three exposures have been made.

[marine1]

Ok figured it out, holy moly it is awesome

[ToxicBunny]

Ok, *mutter*

Gonna have to see if I can make a plan with the image thing... flickr is blocked at work so can't upload it there yet.

[koffiejunkie]

Gonna have to see if I can make a plan with the image thing... flickr is blocked at work so can't upload it there yet.

Aaww that sucks man!

[ToxicBunny]

Ok, seriously fscked around one just to make it fit on the Photo gallery here... I'll work on getting it into flickr in fullsize sometime soon.

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php/photo/7390/size/big/cat/727

[bwana]

Ok, seriously fscked around one just to make it fit on the Photo gallery here... I'll work on getting it into flickr in fullsize sometime soon.

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php/photo/7390/size/big/cat/727We'll . . . she's got a nice personality. :o

[ToxicBunny]

heh...

Its a seriously amateurish attempt at HDR I will admit :)... But hey, its a start and yes I will get hold of a licensed version of Photomatix to at least get rid of those damn logos...

[bwana]

heh...

Its a seriously amateurish attempt at HDR I will admit :)... But hey, its a start and yes I will get hold of a licensed version of Photomatix to at least get rid of those damn logos...Nah - its not all that bad - you just need to experiment more with the tone mapping.

[ToxicBunny]

Yeah, This I know.. that was finished at about 3am this morning.. and I discovered my Photoshop is just a little broken so I need to reinstall that and get it re-authorised by Adobe (Oh so much fun)...

For a first go at using Photomatix, I'm not TOO disappointed... But I am my own worst critic in the long run.

[bwana]

Yeah, This I know.. that was finished at about 3am this morning.. and I discovered my Photoshop is just a little broken so I need to reinstall that and get it re-authorised by Adobe (Oh so much fun)...

For a first go at using Photomatix, I'm not TOO disappointed... But I am my own worst critic in the long run.Got me playing with HDR again

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3281/2957782988_6c5f7bf5c6.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/bwanarsa/2957782988/)

and clearly I'm out of practice :D

[ToxicBunny]

Very very nice...

So which rich person owns that house?

[bwana]

Very very nice...

So which rich person owns that house?Thanks - took less than three minutes from end to end so it was a bit of a rush job.

He owns some construction company IIRC - our friends arent exactly happy having that monstrosity in front of thm.

[stix]

For a look at HDR tuts and or Photomatix tuts

- http://www.vanilladays.com/hdr-guide/
- http://stuckincustoms.com/2006/06/06/548/

The stuckincustoms has done some amazing HDR stuff.

Auto Bracketing with a lockable remote will allow you to shoot all three frames at once in sequence.

If you don't want to shoot in Aperture mode - focus your shot manually

[marine1]

so why do you have to shoot in aperture? Surely shooting in auto or manual you can keep the depth of field at the right setting or am I missing something ?

[koffiejunkie]

so why do you have to shoot in aperture? Surely shooting in auto or manual you can keep the depth of field at the right setting or am I missing something ?

In Auto you have no control over Aperture, so no control over depth of field. Same goes for P, Tv, A-DEP. Not sure about M - I haven't tried it yet.

[stix]

// I don't shoot in Aperture Mode, I shoot in Manual. Set the Aperture to whatever setting you want - i usually set it round 16, and then focus manually before triggering three frames - DOF is not effected

[thisgeek]

This was my first attempt at HDR:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thisgeek/362798620/

Taken in January '07. :p

Admittedly I've hardly touched my camera this past year. Kinda sucks.

[mercurial]

This was my first attempt at HDR:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thisgeek/362798620/

Taken in January '07. :p

Admittedly I've hardly touched my camera this past year. Kinda sucks.

Dude... sweet :D

[stix]

This was my first attempt at HDR:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thisgeek/362798620/

Taken in January '07. :p

Admittedly I've hardly touched my camera this past year. Kinda sucks.


Very nice - if anything up your aperture to increase the DOF.

[mercurial]

Why up the aperture? The DOF is quite nice. A macro of some sorts.

[stix]

Why up the aperture? The DOF is quite nice. A macro of some sorts.

Just a tad more clarity as you move further into the photo from the focus points in the foreground...

[ToxicBunny]

Redid that HDR pic last night and made it ALOT more subtle...

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php/photo/7415

It looks a million times better if you ask me :)

[koffiejunkie]

That's a lot nicer - well done!

[ToxicBunny]

I like DynamicPhoto HDR more than Photomatix, it just seems to suit me better :)
Also integrates into my desktop when I'm running Lightroom better as well.. :p

[stix]

// Sweet

[marine1]

Like chalk and cheese

[ToxicBunny]

Precisely...

I spose it also helped alot that I decided to kind of calibrate my monitor last night as well...

That older image now screams Rubbish at me as opposed to just looking slightly dodgy... :p

[bwana]

Redid that HDR pic last night and made it ALOT more subtle...

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php/photo/7415

It looks a million times better if you ask me :)Much better - kudos.

Want to upload the RAW file so I can try? :D

[ToxicBunny]

The Raw file is 7 megs.... But i'll see what I can do to get it to you...

And I fully expect spectacular results :D

[bwana]

The Raw file is 7 megs.... But i'll see what I can do to get it to you...http://www.mediafire.com/ works pretty well :)


And I fully expect spectacular results :DDont :o

[ToxicBunny]

Is blocked by the werk..

I werk for an IT based company, and we have serious geeks in the security dept who keep things relly tight in terms of what sites we can and can't access...

[bwana]

Is blocked by the werk..

I werk for an IT based company, and we have serious geeks in the security dept who keep things relly tight in terms of what sites we can and can't access...Email?

[koffiejunkie]

I can broker an ftp account if you want.

[ToxicBunny]

email would work :)

koffiejunkie, ftp are locked down for us as well..... strict policies and all that....

[koffiejunkie]

And ssh?

[ToxicBunny]

ssh?... are you mad?.. thats like the devils work.. they can't snoop ssh traffic :p

[koffiejunkie]

regular https then?

[ToxicBunny]

That usually works.. :)

[bwana]

Didnt do much at all ToxicBunny - not used to doing it from a JPG so I'll expect better results from the RAW . . . :)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3023/2960439601_7ee98f7239.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/bwanarsa/2960439601/)

The TB's original has been posted - with permission - here: http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=f51c1d09d46fedc8ab1eab3e9fa335ca61d508ae a5d40485

[ToxicBunny]

Well it still looks pretty good :)..

You'll get the RAW file tomorrow... and I really need to get myself a licensed copy of DynamicPhoto HDR....

[koffiejunkie]

Sorry, I can't get a php upload form going (I'm not a php coder - sigh). Can't gmail handle big enough attachments?

[ToxicBunny]

It can.. thankfully...

Sent the JPG i have with me to bwana already... will send him the RAW file tomorrow for him to play with :)

[bwana]

It can.. thankfully...

Sent the JPG i have with me to bwana already... will send him the RAW file tomorrow for him to play with :)Who in turn uploaded it to mediafire (see above) :)

Doing HDR (**cough** or anything) from JPG is frustrating to say the least - removing the blue fringing (that I think arose from pushing exposure) took longer than processing the actual HDR. :o

[mercurial]

Speaking of which, I'm sure I remember in the beginning when I set my camera to AEB, I squeezed the shutter only once, and it snapped all three shots. Now I have to keep it until all three exposures have been made.

You need to change your Drive Mode. It's currently set to Single shooting. It needs to be set to High-speed/Low-speed shooting. In Single shooting mode, you need to press the shutter 3 times, but with the other two modes, you only press the shutter once.

[koffiejunkie]

You need to change your Drive Mode. It's currently set to Single shooting. It needs to be set to High-speed/Low-speed shooting. In Single shooting mode, you need to press the shutter 3 times, but with the other two modes, you only press the shutter once.

It *is* in high speed mode. I still have to hold it in.

[mercurial]

It *is* in high speed mode. I still have to hold it in.

Then the manual is mistaken. Page 96 I think.

[bwana]

You need to change your Drive Mode. It's currently set to Single shooting. It needs to be set to High-speed/Low-speed shooting. In Single shooting mode, you need to press the shutter 3 times, but with the other two modes, you only press the shutter once.From what I understand he is only pressing the shutter once but is holding it down rather than being able to release it immediately and still get the three shots off.
Speaking of which, I'm sure I remember in the beginning when I set my camera to AEB, I squeezed the shutter only once, and it snapped all three shots. Now I have to keep it until all three exposures have been made.

[stix]

// alternative, and i go with this method, is to use a remote cable that can lock.

[bwana]

// alternative, and i go with this method, is to use a remote cable that can lock.If I'm using a tripod and in no hurry I'll just use the self timer to fire the three shots.

[koffiejunkie]

From what I understand he is only pressing the shutter once but is holding it down rather than being able to release it immediately and still get the three shots off.

Precisely


If I'm using a tripod and in no hurry I'll just use the self timer to fire the three shots.

I haven't tried that. I always use the cable release when I'm on the tripod, but I haven't done any HDR (except a few hand-held ones) since buying the cable release...

[stix]

If I'm using a tripod and in no hurry I'll just use the self timer to fire the three shots.

Yup also a good way to go, I do the same thing i just use the cable to trigger all three at once so to speak

[Just_Ice]

Here is one of my better HDR attemts, considering it is taken with a point and shoot camera, http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_ice/2971356251/

[ToxicBunny]

Impressive :)

I've got a few shots to work on today after I've finished cleaning up the mess that is my music collection

[bwana]

Here is one of my better HDR attemts, considering it is taken with a point and shoot camera, http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_ice/2971356251/Pretty good. :)

[koffiejunkie]

Nice one dude!

[BigAl-sa]

Just thought I'd wake this thread up again. Often, you have a situation, where you need just a bit of a boost in the shadows or knocking down on the highlights. In this case, contrast masking (http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/contrast_masking.shtml) can be your friend. However, the method is a bit painful, and sometimes if the blur radius is too large, you get horrible haloes. I recently found a contrast mask plug-in (freeware) which handles everything rather nicely:

http://www.vicanek.de/

This pic was brightened using the plugin (PSP X2)

http://bigal-sa.smugmug.com/photos/399161938_dxveu-S.jpg (http://bigal-sa.smugmug.com/photos/399161938_dxveu-L.jpg)

[bwana]

Just thought I'd wake this thread up again. Often, you have a situation, where you need just a bit of a boost in the shadows or knocking down on the highlights. In this case, contrast masking (http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/contrast_masking.shtml) can be your friend. However, the method is a bit painful, and sometimes if the blur radius is too large, you get horrible haloes. I recently found a contrast mask plug-in (freeware) which handles everything rather nicely:

http://www.vicanek.de/

This pic was brightened using the plugin (PSP X2)

http://bigal-sa.smugmug.com/photos/399161938_dxveu-S.jpg (http://bigal-sa.smugmug.com/photos/399161938_dxveu-L.jpg)Looks like windows only. Doesnt he know real photographers use mac . . . . :p
:D

[BigAl-sa]

Looks like windows only. Doesnt he know real photographers use mac . . . . :p
:DI thought .8bfs worked on macs :confused:

I know they are painful to use with the Gimp on Linux (and Windoze for that matter)...

[bwana]

I thought .8bfs worked on macs :confused:

I know they are painful to use with the Gimp on Linux (and Windoze for that matter)...I've loaded it into PS3 - it should be under filters right?

[stix]

// Thanks for the link to the contrast mask....personally i think the original scan is the best image on the tutorial :D
// thats a dam handy plugin
// Anyone using Lightroom here ?

[ToxicBunny]

I are using Lightroom, and starting to get my PS sorted out with some decent plugins...

Alot of it is still greek to me of course, but gettnig there slowly but surely..

[bwana]

// Thanks for the link to the contrast mask....personally i think the original scan is the best image on the tutorial :D
// thats a dam handy plugin
// Anyone using Lightroom here ?Blah - Aperture for me :D

[BigAl-sa]

I've loaded it into PS3 - it should be under filters right?
Everywhere I've put it, it pops up under MV's Plugins in the filter menu.

[stix]

Blah - Aperture for me :D Shame ! :D

I made a sneeky discovery re Lightroom and their trial installer....after i bought it ;)


Maybe time for PS thread to share plugins !?!?

[bwana]

Everywhere I've put it, it pops up under MV's Plugins in the filter menu.No joy :o


Shame ! :D

I made a sneeky discovery re Lightroom and their trial installer....after i bought it ;)Shame? I trial'ed both and preferred Aperture.

[stix]

No joy :o

Shame? I trial'ed both and preferred Aperture.

Do they do Aperture for PC, or is it exclusive to the pretty fisher price stations? :D

[bwana]

Do they do Aperture for PC, or is it exclusive to the pretty fisher price stations? :DDell and HP? Sorry to say its Mac only. Brings me back to an earlier point (http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showpost.php?p=2209082&postcount=132). :D

[stix]

:D

[marine1]

Guys I got my hand on a program called "Mdeiachance"
http://www.mediachance.com/hdri/index.html
If anyone wants it.

[ToxicBunny]

I started using it as well... It's v v good

[marine1]

Really? Cool thanks Toxic. Will try later.

[bwana]

PhotomatixPro has also been updated to 3.1.

[ldmelsa]

Guys I got my hand on a program called "Mdeiachance"
http://www.mediachance.com/hdri/index.html
If anyone wants it.

that's the name of the company
the make dvdlab pro
it's the best dvd authoring program i have ever used

[ToxicBunny]

They make a few of my fag utils... The hdr one is nice just becuase it has some predefined profiles to get one started...

They also do a multiple mpnitor taskbar

[marine1]

Bwana, a quick question please?
Lets say you have to take a photo in HDR of something moving, can you not take a RAW photo, copy it 3-5 times or more if you like, edit in whatever program you use and change the exposure in that program, then once you have 3-5 copies at different exposures, you use the next program to create an HDR image? Am I getting this wrong?
Just difficult to take 5 shots of a moving subject.

[bwana]

Bwana, a quick question please?
Lets say you have to take a photo in HDR of something moving, can you not take a RAW photo, copy it 3-5 times or more if you like, edit in whatever program you use and change the exposure in that program, then once you have 3-5 copies at different exposures, you use the next program to create an HDR image? Am I getting this wrong?
Just difficult to take 5 shots of a moving subject.You sure can, and I regularly do, but it isnt as good as taking multiple real exposures.

[marine1]

Ah ha, thanks so much Bwana. Just very difficult to do this with a moving subject.

[bwana]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3174/3016118894_bc740b69eb.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/bwanarsa/3016118894/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3045/3015284199_60b88354b1.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/bwanarsa/3015284199/)

[marine1]

Very nice pics

[plazma]

My very modest HDR efforts are here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plazmaboy/)

Anyone else in Cape Town doing HDR?

[bwana]

My very modest HDR efforts are here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plazmaboy/)

Anyone else in Cape Town doing HDR?Not so sure about Stellenbosch Surreal (personal pref) but some of those are pretty decent. I particularly like The saliva tree.

[ToxicBunny]

They're pretty decent shots.... even yours bwana :p

[mercurial]

Nice pics.

[stix]

My very modest HDR efforts are here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plazmaboy/)

Anyone else in Cape Town doing HDR?

Yup - i am - but very new to it

Your shot of Stellies is awesome

[sdd]

[QUOTE=stix;2253335
Your shot of Stellies is awesome[/QUOTE]


+1. Awesome shot.

[marine1]

The pic of Table Mountain is amazing. Great pic

[stix]

A third attempt. I think i am starting to grasp Photomatix and its settings. Made off one raw.

linkage (http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=7837&cat=500)

[bwana]

A third attempt. I think i am starting to grasp Photomatix and its settings. Made off one raw.

linkage (http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=7837&cat=500)Pretty surreal. :)

Now stop using the forum gallery - its bad for your images! :p :D

[stix]

Pretty surreal. :)

Now stop using the forum gallery - its bad for your images! :p :D

:D Yea one of these days i am going to finish building my photoblog

[bwana]

:D Yea one of these days i am going to finish building my photoblogIn the meantime why not use flickr?

[stix]

Then i never build it :D

[marine1]

Guys some help with Photomatix, I have added 5 photos and then in the main options that load up, there are 3 windows, one for the pics, one for the "selected image" and the last one for the HDR simulator.
Now in the simulator, it looks amazing. How do I get the simulator to display the image and save it without manually having to adjust all the options?

http://img90.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hdrfx0.jpg



http://img55.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hdr2yp5.jpg

[plazma]

When you say simulator, do you mean the loupe?
Process the image, and the result will look like what you saw in the loupe.
The loupe is a preview of what the result will look like, a kinda tiny preview.

I hope you meant the loupe, otherwise this is all irrelevant.

[marine1]

On the pic, look at the one with the simulator, that is what I want the final pic to look like. It does not look like that though.

[bwana]

Guys some help with Photomatix, I have added 5 photos and then in the main options that load up, there are 3 windows, one for the pics, one for the "selected image" and the last one for the HDR simulator.
Now in the simulator, it looks amazing. How do I get the simulator to display the image and save it without manually having to adjust all the options?

http://img90.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hdrfx0.jpg



http://img55.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hdr2yp5.jpgIs that Photomatix Pro? Looks very different from the Mac version.

[marine1]

Yes

[marine1]

http://img145.imageshack.us/my.php?image=38393144wr3.jpg

look at the difference. In the right hand side, you can see the greens so well and it looks amazing. The left pic is how is comes out. Really dull and you cannot see the colours.

[bwana]

http://img145.imageshack.us/my.php?image=38393144wr3.jpg

look at the difference. In the right hand side, you can see the greens so well and it looks amazing. The left pic is how is comes out. Really dull and you cannot see the colours.You should be able to get those results when you get to the tone mapping stage.

[marine1]

don't know why I can't :(

[bwana]

Did you do this out of multiple exposures or just one? If it's just one why not upload the image somewhere and let me have a play with it. In the meantime I'll d/l the windows version of the software and see how it runs on ||s.

EDIT:

YesActually . . . I've downloaded it for the PC now and that's not PhotomatixPro. It is however Dynamic Photo HDR (http://www.mediachance.com/hdri/index.html) which I know nothing about.

Sorry :(

[stix]

Yea thats not Photomatix

[ldmelsa]

lol sorry

[bwana]

lol sorryNo worries :)

[marine1]

Ahh crap what the hell am I doing ? Sorry guys

[marine1]

I think Dynamic Photo HDR seems to be a better program ??


http://img243.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc02361rs9.jpg

Thats what I am trying to achieve but with no noise ;)

[bwana]

I think Dynamic Photo HDR seems to be a better program ??


http://img243.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc02361rs9.jpg

Thats what I am trying to achieve but with no noise ;)If it works for you - I've tried a few myself (and I'm downloading DPHDR now) and so far PhotomatixPro suits me the best but who knows. :)

You want to share the original RAW? - http://www.mediafire.com/

[marine1]

Ok what do you think so far?


http://img412.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc023901234oc9.jpg

[marine1]

Bwana do you just need one file? Not all of them right?

[bwana]

Bwana do you just need one file? Not all of the right?Did you do the HDR from one or multiple exposures?
Ok what do you think so far?


http://img412.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc023901234oc9.jpgI think you did this from multiple exposures and the software had a problem lining up the palm blades?

[marine1]

http://www.mediafire.com/?ymnpdhxkdsj

[marine1]

I think you did this from multiple exposures and the software had a problem lining up the palm blades?Correct

[marine1]

http://img222.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc0238789cj1.jpg

Another try

[bwana]

http://www.mediafire.com/?ymnpdhxkdsjYou sure that's the right photo? It looks incredibly over exposed to me.

[marine1]

Well, that was one of them. I took a total of 5 automatically and that is just one of them.

[bwana]

Well, that was one of them. I took a total of 5 automatically and that is just one of them.You did this one from a single exposure right? http://img243.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc02361rs9.jpg

If so how about sending that one - although I'll understand if you dont want to - those raw files are huge!

[marine1]

Thanks Bwana, I hope this is the right one. I have taken so many.

http://www.mediafire.com/?ymzgundmuoz

[koffiejunkie]

Thanks Bwana, I hope this is the right one. I have taken so many.

http://www.mediafire.com/?ymzgundmuoz

This shot shows what I was referring to in another thread - that pushing exposure in post alters colour. If I take this raw file and push the exposure up two stops, the leaves already turn blue. Now, I'm not saying that it's impossible to get a good accurate result (I'm sure bwana will show us how), but sometimes it's just better to bracket.

[marine1]

Guys please can you explain a bit? I set my camera on Aperture, f stop about 4.5.
I then set the bracket order to take 5 pics automatically. Is this correct?

[koffiejunkie]

marine1, I'm not sure how your cam works - you'll have to consult the manual. On the Canon 40D I enable AEB, set how many stops to bracket by (I tend to go for one stop), and set my "drive mode" to sequence, and fire away.

[plazma]

Marine1, here is my quick and dirty guide to shooting HDR pics, seeing as you are too lazy to read the manuals, :p:

1. Put your camera on a tripod - you cannot do HDR photgraphy properly with hand-held shots, ok? And forget about doing HDR from 1 exposure - you need at least two or 3.

2. Set your camera to auto-bracket. Use a Scenery preset shooting mode. Don't worry about depth of field, for now. Get out the manual of the camera, and read the section on auto-bracketing. Set the brackets as far apart as your camera allows. (-1 - 0 - +1 on mine)

3. Now load your photos into your HDR software.
And now get this - one software is not better than the other. Don't get stuck on debating if Photomatix is better than something else. Learn how to use whichever software you're using, properly. (I switched from Photomatix to Dynamic Photo after you mentioned it earlier in this thread, but most of my pics were done in Photomatix. Thanks for telling us about Dynamic.)

In Summary:
You need a camera that can auto-bracket, a tripod, and any HDR software. That's it. Now go take awesome pics and have lots of fun, I'm waiting to see what you can do.

[marine1]

Hi Plazma and thanks for the post, I have read the manual, I have set it on 2 exposure or bracket either way. There are a total of 5 total pictures taken at once with the differecne of 2 in each photo, maybe I am just going to high both up and down in the exposure.
I think I just need to practise :D
I am using a tripod, Manfrotto. I am using a remote control as well to minimize shake.I think I am maybe using to high exposure, maybe I must go down a bit.

Thanks

[marine1]

http://img370.imageshack.us/my.php?image=84946506wm5.jpg
My camera settings however with the new firmware, the exposure can go up to 2

[plazma]

I forgot to mention - it doesn't matter if your tripod is a Manfrotto or a Gitzo.

Or a Vivitar that cost R90 at Hifi Corruption- like mine.
:p

[marine1]

Ha ha yes I know as long as it works ;)

[koffiejunkie]

2. Set your camera to auto-bracket. Use a Scenery preset shooting mode. Don't worry about depth of field, for now.

Do you mind explaining that? Why use a scenery mode over Av?


I am using a remote control as well to minimize shake.

You can combine that with using mirror-up (if your camera has it) and timer to further minimise shake. When I don't have my remote with me, that's what I do.

[marine1]

Mirror up? What does that mean please?

Edit bulb?

[koffiejunkie]

Mirror up? What does that mean please?

Edit bulb?

Some cameras have a function to lift the mirror up and keep it up. You do this after composing your shot. Lift the mirror, wait a second or two, then squeeze (remotely) the shutter (or time it). The shutter on its own causes less vibration than the mirror going up and down.

[bwana]

Marine1, here is my quick and dirty guide to shooting HDR pics, seeing as you are too lazy to read the manuals, :p:

1. Put your camera on a tripod - you cannot do HDR photgraphy properly with hand-held shots, ok? And forget about doing HDR from 1 exposure - you need at least two or 3.Sure you can. A tripod helps but resting it on something is more than feasible - as I freehand. TBH you can also do it from one RAW file - but it wont be nearly as good.
2. Set your camera to auto-bracket. Use a Scenery preset shooting mode. Don't worry about depth of field, for now. Get out the manual of the camera, and read the section on auto-bracketing. Set the brackets as far apart as your camera allows. (-1 - 0 - +1 on mine)on many cameras doing that pulls you into a world where you can only shoot jpg - raw is always the better option. Here's the important thing - keep your DOF (aperture) constant for each shot.

marine1 - I would recommend exposures in the range of +2 +1 0 -1 -2


Some cameras have a function to lift the mirror up and keep it up. You do this after composing your shot. Lift the mirror, wait a second or two, then squeeze (remotely) the shutter (or time it). The shutter on its own causes less vibration than the mirror going up and down.Which is great if you're shooting low light or taking long exposures but really not that necessary for HDR (unless you're doing a long exposure).

[marine1]

Better?
http://img84.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dsc024298765nc4.jpg

[bwana]

You're getting there but you need to pick your subject a bit better while you're getting used to the process. The subject movement between frames is killing you.

[marine1]

You are dead right Bwana, Moving subjects is a problem. Is there a way around this?

[bwana]

You are dead right Bwana, Moving subjects is a problem. Is there a way around this?Shoot faster (open your aperture)? Also try three (instead of 5) at +2 0 -2.

On my canon if I set it to the self timer while AEB is on it will fire off all three shots one after the other.

[marine1]

Hmm you see I cannot do that. I may be wrong but in the options where i can set the timer, it can either be continuous, timer, bracketting. So I manually have to push the button to take a photo when using bracket. I may be wrong but that is how I understand my camera :D
Thanks for the help Bwana

[Just_Ice]

I dont know where exactly to put this, its not an HDR, but it was made with photomatics.
Just wanted to see what would happen if I put two different pics into photomatics and I think the effect is quite amazing. Check this out! http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_ice/3040690321/

[bwana]

Interesting effect that.

[marine1]

Great pic

[stix]

Nice

[Just_Ice]

Thought so too. Thanks

[plazma]

I dont know where exactly to put this, its not an HDR, but it was made with photomatics.
Just wanted to see what would happen if I put two different pics into photomatics and I think the effect is quite amazing. Check this out! http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_ice/3040690321/

Serendipity. Excellent.
;)

[plazma]

My toy camera does not have a remote cable, but it does have a 2-second self-timer. But even with a tripod, jitter is still a problem. I have never been able to get a really sharp HDR image. The slightest breeze causes tremors and feathering of edges in the image.

Has anyone here experimented with turning image stabilizing off for HDR? I want to try it to see what difference this makes.

[koffiejunkie]

Has anyone here experimented with turning image stabilizing off for HDR? I want to try it to see what difference this makes.

Lens based stabilisation moves the image around, relative to the sensor. If you half press the shutter, so it locks on to something, then move the camera around - notice how the image moves?

So if you have IS enabled and do three shots - they might not be exactly the same image.

[plazma]

Lens based stabilisation moves the image around, relative to the sensor. If you half press the shutter, so it locks on to something, then move the camera around - notice how the image moves?

So if you have IS enabled and do three shots - they might not be exactly the same image.

How exactly does IS work, anyway? Is the updating of the CCD delayed, or sampled less often?

[koffiejunkie]

How exactly does IS work, anyway? Is the updating of the CCD delayed, or sampled less often?

There are two ways:

1. In-lens stabilisation. Canon calls it Image Stabilization or IS, Nikon calls it Vibration Reduction or VR, Sigma calls it Optical Stabilization or OS, Tamron calls it Vibration Compensation (I think) or VC. It works by moving a lens element around to cancel out camera movement relative to the sensor. In other words, it tries to cancel out a perspective shift caused by the camera movement.

2. Sensor based stabilisation. Pentax calls this Shake Reduction or SR. Sony and Olympus (I think) also employs this, I have no idea what they call it. This works by moving the sensor itself around to compensate for movement of the camera.

Both systems have their strengths and weaknesses. The lens-based stabilisation also gives you a stable image in the view finder, while the sensor-based image works out cheaper in the long run, because any lens you put on the camera is automatically stabilised.

Having owned systems that use either (Pentax and Canon), my opinion is that the sensor-based system is better all round - gives you a more stable shot in the end, while the lens-based system is more effective under the circumstances where it works well. I suspect the lens based stabilisation also improves AF, because the image that the AF sensors see is sabilised.

There is a third category, employed by cheap Point&Shoot cameras. They simply boost the ISO (without reflecting it in the EXIF). :eek:

[bwana]

My toy camera does not have a remote cable, but it does have a 2-second self-timer. But even with a tripod, jitter is still a problem. I have never been able to get a really sharp HDR image. The slightest breeze causes tremors and feathering of edges in the image.

Has anyone here experimented with turning image stabilizing off for HDR? I want to try it to see what difference this makes.Nope - I dont have any IS glass.

[plazma]

Nope - I dont have any IS glass.

Err... does "glass" = analog camera?

[marine1]

Glass = lenses as far as i am aware

[bwana]

Err... does "glass" = analog camera?


Glass = lenses as far as i am awareYeah - that expensive bit in front of the sensor. :)

As previously mentioned Canon dSLRs incorporate the IS into the lens rather than the body.

[Dolby]

I know you guys hate overdone HDRs - but I think in some instances it's not too bad

Took this last night http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showfull.php?photo=17756

[stix]

Nice, perhaps a tad over-processed? :D

IMHO this is the kind of processing gives HDR the "bad press". Used sensibly it can be a very handy tool

[Dolby]

When it come to cars - especially in this underground parking - I thought over processed looked better ;)

Though I did warn the photographers around here they wouldn't be chuffed .... hehe.

On another note : If I do HDR that isn't processed and one can barely see it ... why would I use that over exposure fusion? Aren't they very similar?

[bwana]

I know you guys hate overdone HDRs - but I think in some instances it's not too bad

Took this last night http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showfull.php?photo=17756I like the concept . . . :o

[genetic]

I like the concept . . . :o

I agree with Bwana - nice concept! Although it looks as if the image has been covered in some kind of cling wrap. :o

Maybe a little less processing? :)

[SubliminalThought]

Normally an overcooked HDR sucks. However, this is one of the instances where I think over overcooking it for the effect works for what you are after. The image is surreal, and the compositional elements i think all fit nicely to create the final surreal effect. It looks done with purpose for the surreal look.