How to Make An HDR Picture

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By darknova
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This article will teach you how to create beautiful looking High Dynamic Range pictures using your DSLR and Photomatix or Adobe Photoshop.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Find an image that is still that you think would look great in HDR. Night scenes typically work great, as well as landscapes. Make sure there is little to no movement, unless you like the blurred effect of some elements.
Step 2

Set your camera to bracketing mode, typically found under the menu in shooting mode.
Step 3

Set bracketing mode to exposure (AE) and the desired number of stops of light in between each shot. Try 1, and see if you need more or less. Some cameras only allow 3 shots in bracketing mode (1 under, proper, 1 over). The more you can include, the better quality image you will have.
Step 4

Make sure your camera is on a tripod, the slightest amount of shaking will blur your images.
Step 5

Once the set of images are taken, open Photomatix or Photoshop and follow their HDR image creation process.

Tips & Warnings

Use the 5 second timer. When you release the shutter, your finger can sometimes make the camera move.
Try to use a smaller aperture to get a wide depth of field (if desired).
Somehow mark the set of bracketed images (take a picture with your fingers in front of it, something to remind you that the set starts following that picture)

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