When High Dynamic Range (HDR) software was first introduced, I had my reservations. Many images were overly edited, resulting in unnatural effects and excessive saturation. Additionally, the selection algorithms often left halos around the horizon and skylines, detracting from the overall aesthetic.
However, over time, HDR software improved, and I began to appreciate its potential. When Macphun (now Skylum) released Aurora HDR 2017, I was pleasantly surprised by the realistic results, even with simple presets, now known as "LOOKS." As I continued to explore Aurora HDR 2018, I found it to be even better. And now, with the arrival of Aurora HDR 2019, I'm almost in a state of nirvana.
Enhancing Resort Photography with Aurora HDR 2019
In the world of resort photography, showcasing the view outside the window is just as crucial as highlighting the amenities and ambiance of the room. This presents a challenge, as capturing the entire dynamic range can be difficult. Especially in locations like Sedona, Arizona, where the landscape is breathtakingly vibrant, a bracketed approach using multiple exposures is necessary.
To ensure precise alignment, it is highly recommended to use a tripod during the capture. Even with the tripod, some misalignment may occur, but Aurora HDR 2019 offers an easy solution with its alignment feature.
Selective Adjustments for Perfect Results
In the initial processing, both the interior and exterior details are preserved. However, there may be a need for selective adjustments in specific areas. This is where Aurora HDR 2019's powerful layers and masks feature comes into play.
For example, if you desire to enhance the landscape without affecting the interior, you can create an Adjustment Layer, mask the windows, and make the desired changes outside. And if you struggle with making straight lines, a useful tip is to make a mark, hold the shift key, and make a second mark to achieve a perfectly straight line. This feature will be familiar to Adobe Photoshop users.
Achieving the Perfect Tone
When marketing properties, owners often prefer warm tones in the room. However, applying a global adjustment may unintentionally affect the appearance of the sheets. To avoid this, Aurora HDR 2019 once again comes to the rescue with its Adjustment Layer. By adjusting the white balance towards the blue end of the scale, you can achieve the desired warm tone without impacting the sheets.
Moreover, the software offers a range of looks, serving as presets, which can be adjusted and saved as your own unique look. By utilizing masks, you can isolate and fine-tune your changes.
The Final Touches
After meticulous editing in Aurora HDR 2019, a quick trip to Adobe Photoshop may be needed for some finishing touches. Removing reflections in the windows and smoothing wrinkles on the bed can elevate the final image.
Final image: A testament to the power of Aurora HDR 2019.
Preserve Your Progress
One incredible feature of Aurora HDR 2019 is the ability to save your work as an mpuar2 file. This file contains all your source images and the complete history of every editing step, allowing you to resume your work seamlessly.
So, whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast seeking to enhance your resort and real estate photography, Aurora HDR 2019 is here to elevate your creations.
Yours in Creative Photography, Bob
Savings on Aurora HDR 2019
If you're excited to dive into Aurora HDR 2019 and take your photography to new heights, don't miss out on the opportunity to save big on this remarkable software from Skylum.
