Single Image HDR? I know it's possible... But How?

[VisualOddity]

I have been wanting to do this for a while, but haven't looked a lot into it. Now, a few minuted ago I was reading a great thread by Noel (Here! Thanks Noel), and I am motivated now. So here is my question...

How do you do this with one image? I know it can be done. I has to be possible for shots where you don't have a means to take the exact same shots 3 times, like candids, panning shots, pics you took in the past, ect. So, how do you do this with just one image? Anyone know, or have any good links to walk throughs?

[Cybastean]

There may be another method, but one I've used with pretty good results is to take a well-exposed photo, and make two copies at +1 and -1ev in LR or PS, then merge all 3 images in an HDR program like Photomatix.

[srdanz]

There are ways to cheat the software into believing that you really have the range needed for HDR, but you cannot make 32 bits out of 16 (or 12) bits.

It is the same as making a 7000x4000 pixel image out of 3500x2000 image by extrapolating. It can be done, but you're inventing pixels, not using the real ones.

The HDR is the same: you're better off using curve/level adjustment layers with masks, you'll achieve the same effect.

For true HRD, your source must really have the detail in the dark and in the light parts, and that you can do only with two different exposure settings.

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong...

[TXhummer2]

I have taken one jpeg, and modified it to -1 EV, 0 EV, +1 EV and then imported the 3 into Photomatix, with acceptible results.

I have taken one (Fuji) raw, and Photomatix creates a "psuedo HDR" from the raw file.

Tone mapping in Photomatix and post processing to taste.

You may not even need HDR if you use "highlights/shadows" and Lucisart.

http://www.lucisart.com/

[VisualOddity]

Ok guys... First time playing with it. One RAW...
Pic from my back yard the other day...



Original and "HDR'ed"...

[TXhummer2]

see, it works!

[VisualOddity]

Yes it does! Thanks guys! :)

[lextalionis]

Yep, I just tried this evening...got the boys legos and trophies for good color :-)

Original:


Heavy HDR:


-Roy