Sunday, January 8, 2012

HDR on Las Vegas Boulevard


So, it wasn't until I got home that I realized that I didn't bracket that many shots for HDR with the E-P3 during our recent vacation. I'm quite disappointed about that now because after seeing this shot, the files are very well suited to HDR. My original idea here was to frame the image to include some light streaks as cars went by. I didn't have a wide enough lens for this location, so I intended to try again later. Somehow, that never happened. We really kept on the move, so I'm looking forward to the return trip in February to take a little more time since photography will be the focus of the visit.

As for the post processing of this particular image, this was five shots (-2 to +2 at 1 EV increments) merged using Exposure Fusion in Photomatix. I really find this to be my preferred method these days. That's no to say that I don't still use Tone Mapping, but I really like the natural look of Exposure Fusion. My goal is to get a file with as much information as possible for the handoff to Photoshop.

Next up are a ton of Nik filters including, Pro Contrast, Tonal Contrast, Glamour Glow, and Brilliance/Warmth. The last two were added selectively to taste via control points. I'm really impressed with the detail in this image. When zooming in, it's possible to even see some details in the individual hotel rooms.

Sometimes I prefer a more over the top look, especially if there is a killer sky, but recently I like a more natural look to my night shots. What's your preference?

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