The problem with using a key frame is that often, you don’t know if you’ve chosen the correct capture until the program has merged the images together. Any change in position of these objects in other captures is ignored when creating the initial HDR image.Įven with the local contrast (Detail slider) nearly set to maximum, Express 3 creates an image with far less of a grunge look than that possible with other HDR programs. This method involves choosing a “key frame,” or one of the captures that has the moving objects in the position you want them.
Every HDR program uses some technique to exorcise ghost images, but the most successful method is found in higher-end HDR programs, and now incorporated in HDR Express 3.
#REDIRECT2ROXIO.COM FPR HDR EXPRESS SOFTWARE#
A new option for DNG images has been added to those for RAW, TIFF and JPEG files.ĭuring a series of HDR captures, objects moving in the frame from capture to capture cause “ghost” images if the software does nothing to eliminate them. The initial screen to merge source images now has radio buttons to filter images in a folder, rather than a drop-down menu.
HDR Express 3 adds to the functionality of the previous version by incorporating some of the features of its higher-end programs, but without making it more difficult to learn or use. With the release of version 3, Unified Color has made HDR Express even more accessible and user-friendly. Unified Color produces two of these sophisticated programs-HDR Expose and 32 Float-as well as the perfect introductory-level HDR program, HDR Express. There are a number of sophisticated HDR post-processing programs on the market, but few for photographers who want a taste of the realistic-as well as the other-worldly-results possible with HDR. But for newcomers, the learning curve can be steep-not so much on the capture side, but rather in post-processing.
#REDIRECT2ROXIO.COM FPR HDR EXPRESS PROFESSIONAL#
Express 2 performs well and produces quality HDR images.High dynamic range (HDR) imaging has found a place in the toolbox of professional and enthusiast photographers.
Finished files can be saved as TIFFs, JPEGs, or as a 32-bit BEF proprietary format. Still, I wish the diversity of supplied presets were greater to give beginners more avenues for creative departure. This results in unnecessary readjustments if you've unknowingly gone too far.Īny adjustments you make can be named, saved, and added as a new preset. Instead of updating the image in real time as you adjust the slider, it only processes the image when you stop and release the mouse button. These control sliders can be frustrating. On the right side of the preview window, you can finesse your image with eight basic control sliders: Exposure EV, Highlights, Shadows, Black Point, Contrast, Saturation, Warmth, and Tint. Below are thumbnails of 11 optional tone-mapped preset effects for you to build from (e.g., Vivid, Grunge, Open Shadow, etc.). Your merged, tone-mapped image appears in a large window.
The interface is well designed for an efficient workflow. So if you shoot both RAW and JPEGs simultaneously, but only want to use RAW files for your HDR images, the browser automatically arranges it. It automatically and accurately sorts, groups, and arranges your bracketed exposure sequences into thumbnail sets by format. In the standalone version, the new Image Browser lets you navigate and open images from your folders more efficiently. HDR Express 2 is faster and features new deghosting and adaptive tone-mapping algorithms. It installs as a plug-in with Lightroom or Aperture, and also works as a standalone program. HDR Express 2 expands your dynamic range in a photorealistic way instead of the more prevalent stylistic or surreal effects. HDR Express 2 takes a complicated process and simplifies it, especially for people new to creating HDR images.