The big question on many photographers minds is "What the heck are HDR images?" Well HDR, or high dynamic range, images are just that: images that contain a wider dynamic range than a standard digital photograph, from the darkest shadows to the brightest highlights.

Unfortunately many of the HDR images we see aren't truly HDR due to the limitation in dynamic range of computer monitors and printing papers. Because of this, images are tone mapped to preserve viewable colors and create an extended contrast range.

This method works by combining three or more photos, at least one each of a normal exposure, an overexposure, and an underexposure. They are then tone mapped in image editing programs including, but not limited to, GIMP and Photoshop CS2 to create a final image.

General HDR FAQ [link]
Creating an HDR image in GIMP [link]
Creating an HDR image in Photoshop [link]
Wikipedia: HDR [link]
Wikipedia: Tone Mapping [link]

Let see some of these fine pieces of work!

aerodrome control II, HDR by =atut


HDR Vodka by ~janrystar


outside my house HDR by ~pupazzaro


Jimon - HDR 2 by *starfinder


Austin HDR II by *metagore


Maroon Bells in HDR by ~rpieratt


HDR sunfall by Photobandits own ~Rinc3wind


Written by ~KissMyHuman for The ~photobandits Club
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