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Photography Question 

David E. Pearce
 

HDR Bent?


I notice in this month's finalists more confirmation of judges leaning toward HDR images, especially those that show HDR effects. Specifically the Nature and Landscapes finalists have an abundance of these.

We all have our preferences and mine is just one of many, but I'm more of a purist. I'd rather see less of the HDR effects as finalists in this category, and instead see more classic landscapes. Not too long ago the masters of composition and technique dominated Nature and Landscapes with sharp well-crafted captures and less aggressive edits.

Not meant to offend anyone, but just wondering if you've noticed the same?


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November 23, 2009

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
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  You probably did see less of them before everybody started buying the hdr plug-in. It'll move on to something new eventually.
If everybody was a purist, that would be just as bad if everybody did the same plug-in.


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November 23, 2009

 
- Carlton Ward

BetterPhoto Member
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  HI David,
I believe that HDR is an evolution of photography (although it was also done with film) as it captures more of what we see with our eyes as opposed to what a camera can capture since it cannot capture varying exposures in 1 frame. Our eyes are smarter than camera film or a sensor as we can see and discern details in shadows & light areas simultaneously where a camera must be exposed for one or the other.
I hear what you are saying and I am a culprit of this as I do go overboard with my edits sometimes for effect while some of my other HDR images are very lightly edited and dont even look like an HDR image other than it has a more even exposure over the entire scene. I also label any image I use multiple frames/HDR on just to let the viewer know it is an HDR image.
I completely agree with Greg about variety & style are what makes us unique & individuals with the way we see or interpret our art.
I also have a purist side and have many images that are 1 shot captures with very little to no editing at all. I love them all and enjoy the options and having choices of how I shoot & edit.
I dont really keep up with what Better Photo is selecting for finalists but have been lucky enough to have a couple of mine selected (though none of my HDR images have yet) and it all still starts with good composition & exposure, the rest is optional :)
Love in Light,
Carlton


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November 23, 2009

 
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