Photos First attempt at HDR

I don't like the HDR conversion in Photoshop. It often doesn't work well, and it's not as flexible as Photomatix. With Photomatix you can create those really surreal effects if you like, while using Photoshop usually results in a more normal-looking image.

 

That's because Photoshop's HDR tool doesn't automatically do the tone mapping, as Photomatix does. It just gives you an RGB/32 (or so) image that's displayed on your screen as if it were RGB/8. In theory it's much more powerful, but also of course requires you to do more of the heavy lifting.

 

I found Photmatrix very easy to use and would recommend it for someone just getting into HDR.

Cyp.

 

When you convert from the 32bit HDR file to a normal 8/16 bit file, it gives you the adjustment palate which essentially is the tone-mapping stage.

Photomatix is similar - you have to choose your files and then it creates an HDR composite. You then need to do the Tone Mapping to make it look like a real photo. Same sort of thing really, it's a two-stage process for either software. But Photoshop gives more realistic-looking results, and Photomatix can make things look funky if that's what you're after. I'm not sure if you can do that with PS, you probably can, it's just not as obvious maybe.

 

The image looks fantastic mate, from a non-technical n00b photographers POV. Is that the Church next to UCL?

 

Thanks kempez. It's a church called St. Giles down in Camberwell.

I'm now determined to get a pic of it without those damn lights in the way!

Cyp.

 

Wow it's amazing how similar churches look

Go for it, will be looking out for it!