How to create HDR in PhotoshopCS3

Creating an HDR image can be costly, but if you already own photoshop you too can create HDR like images just using the RAW editor. It's simple and easy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• PhotoshopCS3

1. 
    
   raw image editor

   Open PhotoshopCS3; click on Open and choose an image;-Photoshop doesn't necessarily open the RAW editor on command but you can change that in your preferences under the FILE menu. Once you select the image then open the RAW Editor, if you set it up the raw editor will open all images you select automatically.

2. As you can see from the image all of the settings are already applied to my image to make it resemble HDR. But I will walk you through all of the steps so you understand it better. Now onto Step one.

3. 
    
   image settings

   Step 1. So...you have your image opened in the raw image editor, right? Now, check the settings to the right of the image. Please view image to view details

4. Now the most important thing to remember here is that the only settings that actually apply to creating the HDR like image is: Fill light, blacks, exposure, clarity and saturation. But you are welcome to change whatever you want to suit your needs or taste.

5. First you will start at the top and then work your way down. So, let's start with Exposure, you can either put it up or put it down. Then move the Fill light and blacks all the way to the right. (If the photo is overexposed or underexposed then these settings won't apply, change those two as you wish)

6. The Fill light creates more light in the image and the blacks make the image darker. When combined it can create a subtly weird effect of lighting in the image.

7. Next, move the clarity button all the way to the right, or at 100%. Clarity is the backbone to HDR in photoshop Raw editor. Clarity is what shows you the details..it basically brings out the fine wrinkles.

8. Lastly, you can play with Saturation by changing it to black and white or to a deeper saturation. Most photographers choose a lower saturation, such as -40. (personally I don't touch the saturation, I love to show what I saw)

9. So now that you know what each setting is for, and what the most commonly used settings are. HDR images work well on landscapes or people. I hope this article was informative. Good luck!

[jennablack]

on 3/26/2009 This describes photo editing. HDR imaging is a compositing process.

[mosscampion]

on 12/24/2008 HDR is a powerful tool, great instructions.