HDR Nirvana - High Dynamic Range Photography - Class

High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography is a recent and thrilling innovation in the world of photography.  The human eye has always been able to perceive a far greater tonal range than a camera can capture.  HDR was originally developed in an attempt to level the playing field between the camera and the human eye.  However, some photographers now use HDR software to create breathtaking images that appear painterly or surreal.  Here are just a few examples of incredible HDR photography. In this class, the always exuberant and infinitely patient Mark Johnson introduces you to the phenomenal world of HDR.

Your experience takes place both in the field and in BDA's digital lab.  The day begins at 10 am in the lab where Mark introduces you to HDR and explains how to use your digital SLR to capture exposure-bracketed images.  Participants then embark on a late morning photo shoot to a location ripe with HDR possibilities.  Lunch is followed by hands-on classroom time devoted to processing images in Photomatix Pro and finishing them in Photoshop.

What You'll Learn:

• What subjects and atmospheric conditions are most suitable to HDR
• How to use your camera to capture exposure-bracketed images
• How to tone map images in Photomatix Pro
• Methods for using Photoshop to improve or enhance tone mapped files

No experience with Photomatix Pro or Photoshop is required. Both programs are available on the BDA lab computers.  Participation in any of Mark's Photoshop courses (Photoshop: Embracing Your Creative Side or Photoshop: The Heart of Color Correction) will only enhance your experience.