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.