Playing with HDR

HDR [High Dynamic Range] technology has been with us for a number of years and I've been avoiding it like the plaque. Why did I wait so long to begin using it?

For many years I considered myself a purist when it came to my art. You know, capture what is in the frame, make minor adjustments to enhance the image and call it good.

HDR changed that game and the creative process is pushed outside the traditional boundaries.

I already use the Complete Collection by Nik Software for my photographic workflow. Each product is very easy to use and works seamlessly with Aperture, which I prefer over other image processing apps. It was an easy decision to download and demo HDR EFEX PRO by Nik Software.


This past weekend I met with my good friend and fellow photographer Michael Elenko. We joined a classic Thunderbird and Corvette tour on Vashon Island. Lots of cars, sun, and loads of fun! More about that in a separate post later on.

There were a few stops along the tour, one of which was at Engels Gas Station, Repair and Towing. This place is family owned since 1951. For the past seven years the current owner, Paul Engels has put on car shows when the sun shines in August.

There were many rust buckets around the gas station in amongst the blackberries and bees. There were also many good-looking classics on display. The classic car form [style] is unbeatable as excellent examples of their day.

This is where I really have fun with my camera and the subsequent workflow processing.

These are some of the HDR images

Realistic Subtle Process [single image]

Realistic Strong Process [5 images combined]

Bleach Bypass 74% Process [single image]

Bleach Bypass 83% Process [single image]

Subdued Contrasts 34% Process [5 images combined]

Vibrant Textures 30% Process [single image]

Vibrant Textures 30% Process [single image]

 

 

 

 

As you can see the Nik Software HDR can process 1 or multiple images and produce very creative results. There are many presets to choose from and each preset can be further adjusted either on the entire image or on specific points of the image.

Nik Software also provides real-time, web-based training and they have an extensive archive of training videos.

It's time to get out and play some more!

Till next time.

Corvettes Everywhere!

On Sunday Aug 14 my wife Ashara, two of our close friends Lisa and Jeff, and I attended the All Corvette Car Show at the Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-in located in Issaquah, WA.

The weather was perfect for the event: sunny and warm even though there was rain predicted for the day. This is Western Washington after all and anything is possible!

Needless to say, this Corvette fan was in 'Vette heaven with all models (C1 - C6) represented in full glory. One of my more recent friends, Jake Stern brought his custom C4, aptly named The Snake Charmer. Jake's car has won many awards over the years and it is easy to see why. In fact, Jake and I just completed writing a story about his car and we submitted that with accompanying photos to a couple of Corvette magazines. We would love to see his story published!

The Snake Charmer

I was so busy talking with car owners and getting many photos of these beauties that my wife and friends continued on without me, which proved to work out very well for all of us. We eventually hooked up for lunch and more walking about.

The older cars really capture my attention due to the styling of the '50s and 60s. These cars do not have the drive-ability that current cars have, but man, they sure do scream style! Here are some that I really love.

1956 Turquoise w/ white cove

1960 Metallic Black w/ silver cove

C2 Interior

1966 Red with side pipes

There were close to 100 Vettes on display, and many more that were not on display parked across the road. Lots of people drove up on Harley's, in other muscle cars, even on bicycles!

The Triple XXX Rootbeer Drive-in is a favorite destination of car enthusiasts. There is something happening every weekend, and stepping inside the restaurant is like stepping back in time!

See you there next time!