multiple exposure, bracketing, and HDR

[feiron]

are they similiar? my guess is, not quite.

I've been trying to process an HDR image with CS2.

1st try: from 1 single RAW file, I converted 5 TIFF images from -2 to +2. But photoshop said that there's not enough dynamic range to make a useful HDR?

2nd try: took 5 bracketed JPGs of my desk (JPG just for speed sake). load them in CS2 (file>automate>merge to HDR) and it worked.

Question #1: 1 single RAW, even processed as mentioned in 1st try, can not be made an HDR?

Question #2: I tried combining 2 same pictures (different ev) in CS2, using the move tool while holding shift, but they won't combine?

Did I not read this article right?
popphoto.com article, June 2006

Question #3: is using the K10D multiple exposure feature the same as merging an HDR?

thanks for your help

[case sensitive]

You're always better off using 2,3,5,whatever exposures vs. 1 raw.

Try photomatix. It's a much better HDR maker than CS2. photomatix's tone mapping tool is fantastic.

Your first way of shooting can be mad into an HDR, but I believe it is difficult to do in CS2. Much easier in photomatix.

[HogRider]

You can also give this one a try:

Dynamic Photo HDR, high dynamic range imaging software with Anti-Ghosting

Is has a great freeware/trial version without that many limitations.

[chrisman]

The correct way to prepare for HDR in Photoshop (and presumably in any HDR capable application) is as follows:

1. Shoot multiple shots of the same same scene - at least two - using a tripod (and a camera, of course). Vary the the speed (exposure time), not the f-stops, using values like 1/100, 1/250, 1/500 etc. This creates the necessary dynamic range.

2. Use the 'Merge to HDR' dialogue in Photoshop to produce your masterpiece.

That is the way it is meant to work, as I understand it.

Good luck!!

[Buddha Jones]

Here is a good lesson in HDR How to Create High Dynamic Range Images - - PopPhotoSeptember 2006