Complete Guide to High Dynamic Range Digital Photography (A Lark Photography Book)

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I have been trying to learn HDR for the past 6 months using mainly online tutorials. This is the first book I have purchased or read on the subject. Without going into too much scientific detail the author gives a great understanding on what HDR is all about.

He gives great background info on why HDR is needed, what causes noise in digital photos and a lot of information you might or might not want before he ever gets into the how-to-do part of HDR.

He also compares the different programs available for HDR processing and the strengths and weakness of each program.

Once he gets into the actual HDR part, he gives you pretty much all the information you might need to produce great HDR photos. He shows examples and explains how to get both 'realistic' and 'artistic' photos.
He also shows what kind of problems you might incur with different types of scenes and how to approach and correct the problems you might encounter. He also shows how to do HDR-type processing from single images(although he says it won't get you the same 'true' HDR results.

He covers many areas in which you can use HDR, including interior home photography, or, color gels, and a new technique he developed called 'flash merging', which is shooting multiple images using your flash and making an HDR photo from that. I personally think learning this new 'flash merging' technique is worth the price of the book alone.

There are also some samples from great HDR photographers (but those are mainly for inspiration on what can be done, and don't offer much in the way of how-to's).

If you are new to HDR and want to learn how its done, from analyzing scenes before your first image is ever captured in the camera, all the way through to final image, of if you have been doing it for a while and want to learn how to approach problem areas that are keeping your HDR photos from looking like the pros (like noise in your clouds and dark areas) then this book would be a great investment....and it's at a great price.

ByronT....Tulsa, Ok

High Dynamic Range (HDR) Photography presents an opportunity to capture pictures that look more like the real world. Even though this book is not perfect, the subject is important enough for serious photographers to take the time to read the book and experiment with the technique.

Because the range of light that the human eye can see is far greater than what cameras can photograph, it's not uncommon for photographs to show impenetrable shadows or burnt out highlights where the human eye saw detail. Photographers have had some success ameliorating the condition with things like levels and merging and masking in Photoshop. Now HDR promises to extend the light range a great deal further.

After an overview of HDR photography, the author discusses methods of capturing images for HDR processing. He next presents a discussion of two major tools of HDR photography, merging and tone mapping, and then describes the processing of an image in one of the HDR programs, Photomatix Pro. Next he describes the HDR programs available (including Photoshop's apparently second-rate facility) and compares the results of the different programs using several images. The book then discusses post processing of the HDR image, and provides additional tips on making the original capture. The author finishes up by describing special techniques like flash merging, panoramas and single image HDR processing. Sprinkled throughout the book are the portfolios of several HDR artists.

Because I found it difficult to grasp the processing techniques just from the written word, I downloaded trial versions of some of the available HDR programs, and I prepared a set of photographs with different exposure values to use whenever McCollough suggested a particular technique. Even though I felt that McCollough could have given more explicit instructions on the use of the various converters, I was able to create images that demonstrated a far greater range of light then any individual image I had captured, or then images that I was able to adjust in Photoshop.

Because our eyes have become accustomed to the limited range of standard photographs, many of the author's photographs appeared to be too vivid, although when I considered the sample HDR images I had created, I realized that they seemed to reflect the actual light values I had seen when taking the pictures. On the other hand McCollough has no objection to pushing the range of light beyond what the human eye can see to create surrealistic pictures for artistic impact.

I wish that, rather then providing a step-by-step explanation of processing of an image in Photomatix Pro, the author had provided an actual tutorial that the reader could follow on his or her own computer, using downloaded images that the author provided. I guess I really want a book called "the Complete Guide to Photomatix Pro". On the other hand I would also have liked to see full demonstrations of the other available software, similar to the demonstrations provided in "Mastering HDR Photography: Combining Technology and Artistry to Create High Dynamic Range Images" by Michael Freeman.

Because HDR works best where there is no subject movement, the techniques contained in this book are most likely to be applicable to landscape and still life photography. However, it appears there are also opportunities in single image HDR photography for moving subjects.

I am certain that as HDR matures we will be presented with many volumes that can show us how to use this technology, but for now at least, this an excellent place to start.

I've looked through and read four or five different titles relating to HDR photography and all of them (except this one) have some pretty serious gaps or flaws in their approach. This is a young book market, because the technology itself is pretty young / still evolving. I like the many inspiring examples (wonderfully reproduced) in this book, and I like the fact that all of the core tools one might choose for HDR imaging are presented.

However I feel this book sets you up to be a jack of all trades and a master of none when it comes to using HDR software. I would've preferred that the author choose the two most popular programs and really delve into them, to the tune of another 20 or 30 pages worth of instruction, showing step-by-step progressions. Still it is a valuable HDR reference and the only one I would recommend to my students, but there's room out there for something more.

Complete Guide to High Dynamic Range Digital Photography (A Lark Photography Book) is an easy to read guide that makes HDR understandable and do-able. Unlike other books on HDR that left me thinking maybe I shoud'be gone for that rocket scientist degree after all, this one works for me. McCollough takes a relatively difficult aspect of digital photography and puts it on a level that makes me feel like I really can take perfect HDR photographs. I know I will want to refer to its informative and well done illustrations many times to fully utilize all the aspects and possibilities of this phenomenal and relatively new phase of photography. I highly recommend it!

Ferrell does a nice job covering the technical and then applying it to the practical. He does this with excellent examples of his own work and that of other fine HDR photographers. The book covers the basics and also the details with fine examples of the various techniques. It is obvious that McCollough is technically grounded however his is wise enough to keep the information accessible, understandable and usable. I recommend this book as it will make HDR photography understandable, usable and fun!

It was with high anticipation that I got this book to read. While it does give a lot of information and technique, it's just too broad dealing with all of the different HDR software that's available. Unfortunately in this age of great books by Scott Kelby, this one misses the mark for me. My main complaint would be, no example files or online videos to augment what you are trying to learn. I know exactly what kind of look I want and the type of photography that I shoot. Without any actual files to work with (unlike the 7 Point System) I'm still stuck on exactly how to use Photomatix Pro for what I need. Oh well, maybe next time.

HDR photography solves one problem with digital photography, the inability to record an extended tonal range that captures detail in the shadows while preserving it in the highlights. Most fussing with histograms, contrast, and post-processing is simply a compromise. The techniques explored in this book can truly extend the dynamic range of your photographs, and the author provides solid advice on how to apply this tricky process.

You'll find step by step instructions for capturing the dynamic range of any scene, using features found in virtually every digital camera. The photographs used as illustrations in this book are inspiring, too. I recommend this book highly.

Like most books called complete guide to whatever it falls way short. The book favors phto matrix., and leaves you hanging if you use another brand. Showing mostly after shots and little how to get there.

I have been looking for a book that gets right to the heart of HDR photography. I have read several books on the subject or what was to have been on the subject only to find out there was very little actual HDR instructions in these books. I decided to try one more when I bought this book, and I wish I would have bought it first. This book in very informative on all aspects of HDR photography and is not an introduction to photography like some of the others I read. If your interested at all in this type of photography and you want full and complete instructions, this is the book to buy. Excellent study book, and the photos inside are really beautiful. This book has ignited a very very deep interest in me to get out and start using the techniques explained. Get this Book

This is an excellent read. This is the third book on HDR that I've read. They have all improved my results. This book is a continued use book, it has info that you can refer to as you game plan for the photo your about to develop. Really filled in some gaps in my knowledge. Gives excellent examples for a number of different HDR software and on what types of images they each excel.

I am a photomatix user, after reading this book I am using more of the tools the software provides. I am now trying some of the other HDR software. I see where they can fit into my workflow.

One thing is definitely true of HDR processing: There are lots of sliders, controls and options. Knowing which ones are useful and which to avoid is half the battle. And since HDR software uses terms like Highlight Smoothing and Micro Adjusting local contrast, the topic needed a little demystifying. That is what this book does.

As one reviewer here points out, this book does lean heavily toward Photomatix as the HDR processor of choice, but there is plenty here for users of FDR Tools and others. The real trick is finding one or two packages and learning which controls you need to get the images you want. The software makers themselves don't really tell you what each of these various adjustments actually does. McCollough could do more in this area, but he does a pretty good job.

I fault the book in one small detail. McCollough refers often to a technique in Photomatix called Highlights and Shadows --Adjust. It's a good technique for more realistic images and the author uses it to good effect. However he completely fails to mention how to find it, how to use it, what the controls are or anything else. He goes into tone mapping in great detail, but offers nothing on this. It isn't even in the idex. In fact, this important technique doesn't use an HDR image at all, but rather blends the exposures of a series of images directly into another standard DR image.

All in all, this is a great book to help you feel more comfortable with all the aspects of this interesting photo technique. You will still have to discover a lot on your owm. HDR works in mysterious ways. But this book is never obscure and is very readable. Highly recommended.

When you look at professionally shot images, they always seem so rich and saturated, with incredible end-of-the-world-is-nigh skyfields, and detail jumping out of the shadows. I always assumed such shots were because of pro-quality gear that I could never afford, or because of pro-level attention in Photoshop that I would never have the patience to learn.

Not so. You can shoot these images with any point-n-shoot, with a couple of clicks of post-processing with free software at home. This book tells you how to do it.

The trick is so simple that the primary value of this book is as an art resource. With this powerful technique, you can get amazing photos in places where regular photography stands no chance at all - like deep inside a railway tunnel, or shooting directly into a sunrise while still capturing foreground shadow detail.

There are many resources on the web. The author's own website is an excellent place to start, and may cannibalize sales of his book. Also, this is a fast-moving subject. The book (so far I could find) makes no mention of Qtpfsgui, a free tool that does a nice job of merging the exposure stack. The results are so dramatic that hdr-ready cameras with built-in mergers can not be far away. It is unfortunate that this book will be technically obsolete fairly quickly - but it will always have a wonderfully inspirational set of images to admire.

For a long time, I was quite oblivious to the possibilities of High Dynamic Range photography. It was just one of many new digital 'things' in the world of photography. But after seeing a series of HDR shots of French church interiours, I had to learn more about this fascinating technique.

Initially, I read a number of articles off of the web and studied discussions in different forums, but decided to get a book dedicated to the subject. I got this one, and I am very happy with it.

The text is well written and easily understood. It's neither too technical in nature, nor too simple. The author describes how an image is captured in your camera, how noise is brought about, what limitations there are to different types of camera, and what difference there are between different lighting situations. All in all, everything needed to judge when and how HDR imaging is helpful in any given situation. He goes on to tell about the image capturing process, conversion, and post-processing. He also tells about the use of some special techniques, like single photo HDR and merging of flash photos. The difference between a number of proprietary HDR software is also explained, letting the reader decide which he or she prefers.

All the way throughout, the author makes good use of beautiful photographs to illustrate his points, and show the effect of HDR processing. There are also examples of other HDR artits' work in the book. These images are not for teaching purposes, but rather serves as inspiration for the reader, showing the possibilities and uses of HDR photography.

The advice given in this volume, is fairly straightforward and easy to follow. You'll be out there making your own HDR images soon after reading. I initially thought HDR images a bit too well exposed, a bit too natural, a bit too 'good', if you know what I mean. They seemed unnaturally good. Now I see that they are in fact capable of rendering a much more realistic depiction of reality than normal photography. HDR is a great tool for any photographer to have in his technical arsenal, simply for tricky exposure situations or for out and out art photography. It is much simpler (and much more available) than difficult lighting rigs and multiple flash units going off at once.

I was indeed very pleased with this book, and will definitely recommend it to others.

HDR can certainly improve some images or create a unique "look" but it's not for general photographic use, at least not yet. But given that, this Guide explains how to use HDR very well and gives a number of examples I would never have thought of.

There is a concept that most of the amatours call HDR and its realy not fit the real meaning. This book is good for pop culture, but most of the pictures (I say picture, not photogrphy,) you would probably like and also you would like to know how people do that.

I must just warn you the book is not academicaly right.

If I were the writer, I would name the book: Complete guide to manipulate dijital photography (and creating illustrations) by using High Dynamic Range Method...

Conclusion:

Good book for people say: I wanna do that colorfull, beautiful things I don't care what is it...

Not suggested for: I'm a photography (or visual enginnering) student-, and I need to know the Literature and what does HDR means...

The book is well written, but there is no new information for me here. It's all been covered many times before. There are a wealth of inspiring example images printed in the book, but reading it was not a learning experience for me.

I'll add it to my library of photo manuals but I won't be using it as a reference. And if someone wants to borrow a book on HDRI this is the one I'll give them because I won't care if they don't return it.

I read all the reviews after I read McCollough's book. All the five-star reviews are right on target. I especially liked all the photos he included that show before and after comparisons. His analysis of the different software packages is very helpful. On the other hand, all the other HDR books got rave reviews, so it seems you can't make a mistake buying any of them.

One downside for some: McCollough does not litter his narrative with sophomoric,distacting,and irrelevant jokes like some other writers. He sticks to the subject at hand and does not quote sappy lyrics from aged rock stars! That makes this book a quick read.

This book is definitely worth reading if you have photography background but are just getting into HDR. I've been a professional photographer for over 10 years, but just started playing with HDR for personal projects. This book provides a solid introduction to the concepts of HDR and the tools that are currently available on the market.

I am a professional who has shot traditional photography for many years and had a new photography book published last year. However, when I decided to get started in HDR photography, I was totally lost. That is, until I discovered Ferrell McCollough's book, "Complete Guide to HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY". This book goes everywhere with me, along with my camera and equipment manuals. It's the old "Don't leave home without it." It is extremely easy to read, the examples are excellent, and Mr. McCollough thoroughly knows the subject. I read the book, then went back and produced an HDR image following the easy step-by-step instructions. Within a couple of days I was producing HRD images beyond my expectations. If you want a quick and easy means of getting started in HDR, this is the book. And, it goes into advanced techniques such as multiple flash HDR imaging. In addition, the book provides an excellent comparison of numerous HDR processing software platforms, so you can decide which one to use without having to buy it first.

Digital photography has opened up HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography where you are baically ablee to prroduce photographs thqat the camera does not normally capture.

It is an intriguing technique and I was a bit confused about it all, but found this book to help me progress.

It covers all the ground from how to shoot and how to process the images you take to be able to really tap into HDR. If you have any interest in the subject at all, you owe it to yourself to include this book in your photography book collection.

While I found this book to be helpful, I thought that it was a little behind the curve as far as being current to the Photomatix software that I wanted it as a tutorial for. With recent updates to the that software, the instructions in the book for Tonemapping photos tend to be a little out of date. The sliders have changed and the number of them has increased and so some are just not mentioned in the book. That said, it isn't a bad place to start as it talks about capturing the image, ghosting, and other subjects. The photos in the book are very helpful illustrations.

There are some very impressive photos, which should easily persuade you that HDR photography is worth investigating. All the major software packages are examined and their virtues compared. Workflows and ways of circumventing the problems associated with the technique are amply described.

The science behind the process remains a mystery and the operation of the software is largely intuitive, essentially involving moving the various sliders up and down until you get a result that you like. Consequently, the need for a book such as this might be questioned. However, on balance, I think that there is sufficient background and guidance to justify it. Also, as I say, the photos sell it on their own!

Dennis

This is an inspiring book for the photographer attempting HDR techniques. It's really more of a reference book, with beautiful HDR photographs and many before/after photos. It has made me aware of what's possible. I wish there was more instruction regarding how to get the best results with "details enhancer." I recently purchased Photomatix (the software most recommended in this book) and I'm happy with the results I'm getting overall, though like anything else, it takes practice.

What a great resource book! Before I purchased this book my HDR technique left much to be desired. I was using Photomatix Pro and basically moving sliders this way and that and never really understanding how the workflow of HDR manipulation should proceed. As pointed out by one reviewer, the tips on how to reduce noise, particularly in the sky are worth the price of the book. In addition, the best tip of all is to make sure you never shoot at greater than ISO 100...this in and of itself does more to improve your final HDR images. Further, the print quality and selected photography in the book was top notch in getting across key points! From my experience, you should know your camera well before venturing deep into the HDR "pond". Example, if you have the latest and greatest D-SLR that has fast continuous shooting (greater than 3fps) combined with AEB (auto exposure bracketing) you can ignore the limitation of a tripod and shoot HDR handheld most of the time.

In conclusion, this book has opened up a lot of spontaneous HDR imaging opportunities for me. The only recommendation I'd make is I'd have liked more direction on some post-processing tips. The HDR software does not in all cases give you a 100 percent final product. But, overall, this book is a must have and I guarantee it will reduce the learning curve in creating stunning HDR images...it did for me!

Outstanding book for HDR. Great Step By Step explanation of reaching your goals to present the best photo possible. Awesome before/after photos that show the power of HDR.
Only down side (and sometimes humorous) was the gross mis-spelling of some words. Nobody used Spell-Check?
Grammar aside, this is an excellent walk-through reference for jumping into HDR!

Although I'd read three books on HDR, I needed this one to bring everything together. I couldn't figure out how many exposures it is best to take, and how much to bracket, let alone how to combine them all into one finished HDR shot. This book has everything you need to learn HDR, and the examples are great, too.

However, you should also check out Practical HDRI: High Dynamic Range Imaging for Photographers. I found this book to be useful, as well. It's only a beginner's book, and has just 175 or so pages, but it explains things in a very clear way. Once I'd absorbed the basic material, I was ready for Complete Guide to High Dynamic Range Digital Photography (A Lark Photography Book). If you're a beginner, you need both.

I will recommend this book to any person interested on the subject.
The best book I read this year inspirational and motivational reading.
The author is a gifted teacher. I'll give it six stars.

A very informative book with brillant photography,a great guide to getting started with high dynamic range photography for all levels of photograhers.Easily explains all aspects of high dynamic range and the post processing that is involved with the different programs that are available for doing this type of photography.

This is the best HDR book I have read. It covers all the important issues of HDR and gives your the tools to execute dynamic images.

While I like this book and found it useful as someone new to HDR, in retrospect I would advise against buying this book or any HDR-specific title. The reason is that there simply isn't that much to HDR itself to warrant an entire book. HDR is more properly the subject of a book chapter IMO, although no doubt there are those who would disagree. What I got out of this book is mainly an understanding of the various software tools available for HDR processing as well as an understanding of the general HDR workflow, all of which I suspect I could have gained with minimal effort directly from web sources.

I have been shooting some HDR photos (well attempting too) but have never really been able to 'connect'. I have read from many online websites but never really got the concept. This book explains the whole process from from start to finish, goes through a review of the more popular software packages out there and thoroughly covers the subject of HDR. I can't wait to get out and start using what I am learning in this book. This is an UNQUALIFIED BUY THIS BOOK review.

you won't be sorry.

Pros:
-some very nice pictures - most high quality
-compares various programs
-good writer, clear, intelligent prose
-has artists show their work
-tells how to run programs
-goes into workflow
-goes into various "modes" - architectural, outdoors, etc.
-goes into details of good images, noise, movement, etc.
-Price is good
-has good esthetic eye
-systematic approach
-obviously has done his homework
-will be an immediate help for hdr beginner or experienced
-is thorough, probably best book out there on hdr
-book has large format and many photo examples
-did I say the writer has made everything clear?
-shows photographic exposures for many shots

Cons:
-would have liked to see more on portraits mode

I really enjoy a writer who understands his topic this well and doesn't underestimate my intelligence or overestimate my knowledge.

This book provides the practical, step-by-step instruction I'd been looking for, and includes outstanding examples of HDR photos in beautiful color detail.

I've read it three times now and continue to make notes to myself in the margins. That's always a sign that I've gotten my money's worth and will add the book to my permanent library rather than pass it along to another reader.

I highly recommend the Complete Guide to High Dynamic Range Digital Photography. I couldn't ask for anything more.

I'm finding this book easy and pleasant to read and also very useful. My first HDR effort since getting the book is posted in my blog at [...] In particular, the book has pointed me towards post processing of HDR tone mapped images or even combining various tone mapped images to get the effects that I want.

This book is a very good introduction to HDR Photography.
Easy to understand and informative.

A must have if you're trying to learn about HDR photography. Tons of details, but very simple to follow. Well presented

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED if a introductory to mid-level HDR book is needed!

This is a solid read! My experience and knowledge of HDR prior to reading this book was limited at best. This has changed greatly as I now have a very good understanding of the technique, and how to apply it in a given any given situation. Lighting is thoroughly covered along with subjects albeit macro, landscape, & everything in-between. The information about software & post-processing is great stuff! The rationale behind the specifics are covered in a non-bias fashion yet is very in-depth. The book is lined with photo comparisons to illustrate how software treats a specific situation differently. These comparisons help tremendously to show how different post-processing techniques will react. There are also plenty of explanations for working around common errors of HDR- before and after they occur. Workflows are also clearly & rationally defined, and help to keep one out of the weeds before wading in.

Just working my way through a number of Photography books trying to gain some more insight and knowledge. Read the "Complete Guide to HDR Digital Photography" and although not a 'complete' in the sense full and unabridged from A-to-Z the book is a very useful starter to advanced book for HDR. It provides a wide range of examples, describes several different programs with pro's and con's, describing their use with settings etc., practical enough to let you get started and advanced enough to suggest towards some directions for further trials. Very straight/simple, very practical and very easy to read/use, and also as a reference book. I will recommend the book to any HDR interested photographer.

If you are new to HDR this book is a great introduction to this exciting new technology. This book is an easy read. Please keep in mind that a basic understandind of photography is needed. You will also need to under steand the operation of your camera, and you will need your camera's manuel. Dont be discouraged, amateurs and pros will both enjoy this book. Go on give it a shot. It will be fun.

I purchased this particular book to learn how to do HDR photography. I have been very satisfied with the explanations and in general the whole make up of this book.
It is very easy to read, and not too complicated to understand. The examples are great, and HDR photo's by other photographers are featured. Overall, I don't believe I could have gotten a better bang for my bucks. I rate this book five stars.

Can't do justice to rating the content, but product arrived quickly and in nice condition!

I bought this book Several Months ago. I can now do HDR Photography and the process. This book is Very informative and very good at teaching the HDR novice! I Highly recommend this book if your wanting to learn how it's done. This is the only book i've used and have some very good HDR work now, that i've done myself. For proof you can go to flickr and hopeparr

Awesome book with fantastic photos. These easy to understand directions will give photographers a whole new dimension for their photographs.

Easy to read. Awesome examples. The Photomatix version in this book is not the latest one, but still is close enough.

HDR photography is very interesting. In this book you get a good primer and several examples of great shots. The shots look different from normal photography and you will have to decide if this is a technique for you. I only give the book four stars because there is a litte too much on different computer software (which change too quickly anyway).

I just bought my first DSLR camera. I bought ten photography books on amazon. I'm evaluating these books from the perspective of a semi-advanced amateur. (On things I've learnt is that book by the same author tends to be very similar. So make sure you vary your authors when buying more than one book. Rather than saying this author is good, let me buy more from him/her.)

I bought this book right after I bought Photomatix HDR software, and they're a great combination. The book provides detailed instructions how to get the most from the HDR software.

The book provided the missing information about the HDR process.With switching from film to digital.I wanted to be able to capture the tonal range and richness that film provided only in digital.this book provided such information.The book is well written,easy to understand and it's processes easy to execute.I was under the impression from reading other books on the HDR process that all images had to be captured in raw and the use of jpegs would not work with HDR.A fact disproved in this book.Simply stated ..If you want to learn the HDR process ..this is the book for you.

Good examples of HDR photography. Shows how to make an ordinary scene an award-winning photo.

I agree with several of the reviews: It's a great introduction to HDR. Read it slowly to get a good understanding of the principles. I took it to Cape Cod and sat on the beach for two days reading it. A good experience. The author covers the bases well.

A nice book to have around studying and developing hdr
Quite a lot of shots are not my favourite to much color saturated or a bit freaked out but that is personal
Nevertheless a book that should definitly take a place in your library

This is a clear, concise and easy to read book on HDR. I had purchased another book first and it was so complicated and confusing that I gave up. This book is absolutely the best on HDR