CREATIVE PROJECTS
2
Shoot in the raw format
The idea of a high dynamic range image is to capture
more light data that the camera is capable of in a
single frame, so for best results shoot in raw because the JPEG
compression throws away a lot of image data. Set a low ISO of
50 or 100 to reduce noise, too, because it’s really amplified by
the HDR process.1
Use a tripod
HDR images require several aligned frames, so use a
tripod. As well as helping to keep the camera position
consistent between exposures, a tripod is also essential if a
longer shutter speed is required, which is often the case when
shooting the over-exposed frames in your HDR sequence.4
Aperture-priority mode
To capture under- and over-exposed images, we
could adjust either the aperture or the shutter speed.
However, you’ll need to set aperture-priority mode. This will
maintain the same depth of field throughout your sequence,
while the camera will set the appropriate shutter speeds.3
Bracket the exposures
The easiest way to record a range of frames at different
exposures is to set Auto Exposure Bracket (AEB) at
-2 to +2. Your camera will take three shots in succession at
three different exposures. If you want more, dial in -1 stop
exposure compensation and fire off three bracketed frames,
then over-expose by +2 stops and fire off a couple more to
record five frames.6
Handheld HDR
If you don’t have a tripod, it’s possible to hold your
camera. Set up bracketing and use the Continuous
shooting drive mode, then brace yourself and hold the
shutter button down to fire off the frames in quick
succession. Increase the ISO to ensure the shutter speed
doesn’t drop below the handheld limit, which as a rule of
thumb is 1/focal length.5
Mirror lockup
If your exposure requires a long shutter speed
(anything below 1/100 sec) then set mirror lockup to
avoid capturing signs of camera shake from the mirror
movement. This is done through the Custom Functions
Mirror Lockup menu. Enable this, then set the timer to two
seconds (or use a cable release).