Blue Tree

I don’t shoot HDR (high dynamic range) photography very often anymore.  I know some photographers don’t like it because they think they are too “Photoshop” or look fake.  I would say that its personal preference.  For years people have been manipulating pictures (i.e. Ansel Adams) and to be honest there are probably not too many pictures posted on the internet that haven’t had some editing.  I know some will argue but I don’t really see the difference in HDR photography from someone who uses neutral density or graduated filters (i.e. Lee filters).

Even though I don’t shoot many any more, I still find Trey Ratcliff’s shots interesting and inspiring.  He also has great comments to go along with his shots.  Another photographer, Mark Neal shoots a lot of HDR and is great at discussing his workflow.  If you haven’t visited their sites, I would highly recommend you do.

This shot was taken in San Diego.  It was September and only weeks before I traded in my Canon 5D Mark II for my Leica M9.  My Leica can shoot HDR (can bracket up to 7 shots)  and I do from time to time but I’m more interested in shooting people in their daily lives and love the challenge of catching the decisive moment.