Not just Nikon

Moderated by: chrisbet,

HDR for macro?

Author	Post

Posted by Constable: Sun Jan 27th, 2013 12:41

1^st Post

How does anyone feel about this image? I am completely uncertain. The history is that it is from a sequence of six images which were converted using Helicon Focus into a single stacked image (that is the origin of the wierd bokeh and some of the ghosting).

On a whim I tried using some HDR effects on the image in photoshop. The colours are still actually very true (after a lot of tweaking). I just cannot decide about it? What do you all think?

The original image is here:

http://www.dgrin.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=37253&stc=1&d=1359274902

Attachment: Oedipoda-caerulescens_6_stack_hdr.jpg (Downloaded 30 times)

Posted by Robert: Sun Jan 27th, 2013 13:26

2^nd Post

Hi Ed, I take it you are talking exposure stacking? As opposed to focus stacking.

As for what I feel about the image, I think the contrast is a bit harsh, I looked at the original and that's a bit flat, obviously because it hasn't been processed. I feel many of these HDR images look over cooked but sometimes an image needs a lift. The question is how far to go.

I am sure the colours are accurate but perhaps the luminosity is a bit high? As for the background it seems to be suffering from tones being compressed which are spoiling the soft, milky tonal graduations which make good bokeh.

Perhaps the subject could be separated from the background with a quick soft mask which would have allowed the bokeh to survive (and perhaps be softened further still?) and the subject to be enhanced.

Just a quick observation...

____________________
Robert.

Posted by Eric: Sun Jan 27th, 2013 13:49

3^rd Post

Tend to agree with Robert's comments regarding the intensity of the image. Whenever I do HDR work I always keep the original on a layer underneath the final image. Changing layer modes and varying opacity can often modulate the effects of HDR to a more acceptable midpoint level. But ultimately it's down to personal preference.

Don't like the bokeh... and Helicon doesn't seem to have grabbed the head area sufficiently?

____________________
Eric

Posted by Constable: Sun Jan 27th, 2013 14:45

4^th Post

Thanks Guys.

Robert ... no it was focus stacking. I only used 6 exposures which is why the stacking is a little uneven as Eric has spotted. It was more an experiment with the HDR technique than an example of good stacking technique.

I don't think I like it .. but I agree with all of the the other Pp suggestions.

Ed

Posted by jk: Mon Jan 28th, 2013 09:29

5^th Post

The OOF background is very distracting with the smears.
So yes I'd agree with Robert's comments about that.

The grasshopper looks fine to me except for its antenna where there is a smear. It may be my eyes but the eye of the grasshopper isnt as sharp as the body which is a little distracting.

Have you tried the HDR in CapturePro v.7.0.2 using the Shadows/Highlight sliders ?
Seems to work well.

____________________
Still learning after all these years!
https://nikondslr.uk/gallery_view.php?user=2&folderid=none

1st new

This is topic ID = 507
Nikon DSLR Forums > The Image Processing and Editing Forums > Special Effects > HDR for macro?	Top
Users viewing this topic

Current theme is Blue

A small amount of member data is captured and held in an attempt to reduce spammers and to manage users. This site also uses cookies to ensure ease of use. In order to comply with new DPR regulations you are required to agree/disagree with this process. If you do not agree then please email the Admins using info@nikondsl.uk Thank you.