Very First Attempt at HDR Photography

[grandpawrichard]

I decided to finally break down and try my hand at HDR Photography today. Please keep in mind that this is my Very First Attempt. The photo is of a tree in the yard of a neighbor up the street from my house. The sun broke through the clouds and was illuminating the tree and painting it with gorgeous colors.

I realize that there is No Focal Point to draw you into the photo. Also, the background is quite dark because of the dark and nasty storm clouds that were behind the tree. I sure would appreciate any and all Constructive Criticism to help me improve my HDR editing skills. This is going to be a major learning exercise for me, but I am always striving to improve my photography skills.



Dick

[grandpawrichard]

another attempt:



Dick

[Bean Counter]

Grandpawrichard,

I love dark grey skies near sunset! Nice colors in the trees. Just curious as to why you felt HDR was indicated for these two shots.I wonder if the same results could have been achieved just shooting a single shot.  I personally only do it when I am shooting something with high contrast, usually a sunrise or a sunset.  Example:

[grandpawrichard]

Bean Counter,
I just took the photos so that I could learn to use the software.

Here is one of my latest HDR attempts:



Dick

[Bean Counter]

 

[TikkaT3-270Shortmag]

Any suggestions for a camera for a newbie?

[Bean Counter]

What do you want to shoot? Landscapes? Kids running around? Sports? Wildlife? all the above? What is your budget?