Photoshop's [Automate->Merge to HDR] feature said this image didn't have enough dynamic range, so I decided to do it myself.
I kind of suck at Photoshop. I don't like post processing that much. But I figured that I should just do it anyways.

So here are my steps:
1] Save 3 different .jpegs from one .CR2 image at different exposures for shadows, midtones and highlights.
2] Open in Photoshop.
3] Make a 3456 x 2304 document w/ 3 layers.
4] Put each image in its own layer.
5] Play w/ opacity percentage.
6] Get really disappointed.
7] Make some translucent gradients on half of the shadows and highlights images (sort of like a CPL).
8] Play w/ opacity some more.
9] Shift layer order around, then more opacity.
10] Layer->Flatten Image.
11] Play w/ Curves tool.
12] Lots of burn/dodge work to add contrast to trees and detail to the really bright parts of clouds.
13] Play a little more w/ Curves tool.
14] Play a little w/ Hue/Saturation tool.
15] Edn. ;D

I'm rather proud with this finished piece. What do you think?


| EOS 350D + Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM |