6 tips for AMazing HDR photography. HDR nature, portraits, weddings and more

6 Tips for great HDR images.
HDR is just cool. Amazingly there seems to be a relatively small amount of information on HDR as it relates to the people pictures. By most HDR is treated as a fun toy to use with nature photo’s, and not much more. One of the reasons for this could be that HDR portraits are a bit challenging, and unknown territory. It’s not rocket science, but it does take some time to get the hang of. Here’s a few tips that you can use for both landscapes and people shots.

1. Break out the tripod. Don’t think you’re going to take great HDR’s hand holding a camera. While some HDR rendering software will attempt to line them up, you really need clear, consistent images for great HDR’s. Stability is key!

2. Use a cable release. This is a good rule with portraits and stills alike. You want those images to be lined up as close as possible, so invest in the tools to keep your camera steady. Beside it looks cool to stand there majestically and press the button.

3. Auto Bracket. Most DSLR’s have an auto bracket function that allows you to have -2, 0 and +2 exposures in one quick burst. AB allows you to expose things fast without handling the gear as much, and I find that those 3 images are usually all you need.

4. Think Simple. Every HDR image does not have to have a distinct or odd looking fantasy look. HDR gives you control once you learn it. It’s OK to use mildly rendered HDR’s. People may not even know it’s HDR, they’ll just know when it looks great!

5. When and Where? With nature and still life you should just get in the habit of shooting bracketed exposure sequences. That way you can make an HDR out of any scene. With portraits and people however Don’t try to shoot every image in HDR. Not only would it be virtually impossible on the go, it would be too much. HDR is a bit like a spice, especially in portraits. Balance is the key!

6. Don’t over edit. I find this to be the most common problem people have with HDR. Anyone can properly shoot three or four images for an HDR, but to get the magic you have to use the software and do good editing. Don’t always go for that over the top look. Just because it’s an HDR doesn’t mean you have to make it look flat, or overedited. Use HDR as a powerful tool to get dramatic exposure in your image and it will work for you. Just keep in mind what makes a great looking final shot…

You can see more of my HDR portraits, on my website… Gavin Seim

For more details on the mechanics of shooting people. Check out my recent article on HDR Portraits, Fashion, and Wedding Photyography.