HDR photography is really HDR processing. This shot is actually 3 shots, and it would not be possible without HDR. HDR is a software approach to image editing that allows a photographer to combine the best aspects of multiple exposures of the same shot. If you have an iPhone, you'll find an HDR switch in your camera with the new software. That automatic function will give you a minor taste of the wonders of HDR photography, but as is the case with automatic functions, it's a one-size-fits-all function that doesn't allow the user to get inside and play. And after all, what's the good of new technology if you can't get inside it and play?
I was having a discussion with one of my younger son's best buddies over the weekend in which he ragged on me mercilessly about the fact that I don't play video games. At all. I'm just not interested. But like I told him, photo editing is even better. I get the same rush shooting and editing photos or producing audio programming that he gets from games. And in addition to a fantastically entertaining diversion, I get the extra charge of seeing (or hearing) the results of my efforts when I'm done. At the end of the day, creating something that wouldn't exist if I hadn't done it is what oils my engine.
This shot - "The Tree" - was taken at the wonderful Idle Hour Country Club, in Macon, Georgia. This 98 year old course is a real beauty, and I've now had the pleasure of shooting it twice. CLICK here to see both shoots. The most recent shoot is HDR. The older one was done in the more normal, single shot manner. See what you think of the differences, and let me know what you think!
