The HDR is a photo technique that will use multiple images of the same scene taken at a different exposure, and merged by software in a single final image.
We then obtain a much more vibrant image in terms of rendering and with an extended Dynamic Range. In English, we speak of High Dynamic Range or HDR.
How many photos for an HDR?
The HDR is a photographic technique that requires taking multiple images at varying exposure. In absolute terms, we could merge between 2 and an infinity of images.
In practice, the more images we have to merge, the “finer” the result will be, but the longer the processing time will be. So, we will limit the shots to have a good effect while being productive.
In real estate, the idea is to obtain a soft image that does not look too “false” and retains a natural dynamic. The number of photos to take depends on your hardware, software, and the rendering you want to obtain. So you have to do a few tests and see what suits you best.
But as a starting point, we advise you to take three photos for an HDR. One for the dark part, one for the light part, and one for the middle area.
A photo with the average exposure calculated by the camera, an “underexposed” photo, will give me information and details on the bright area, and an “overexposed” photo to have features in the dark area.
HDR, A standard today
The realization of an HDR requires two steps: The shooting (where you will take several photos of the same scene at different exposures), and Fusion (with software to combine all these photos into one richer)
With a little practice, the technique is not difficult. Especially since the method is identical whatever the picture. So with a bit of practice, you’ll pick up the right habits and achieve effective HDRs. You can visit https://skylum.com/blog/drone-gifts to learn more.