High-dynamic range (HDR) is an imaging process that allows photographers to enhance the dynamic range of luminosity in a given photograph. In other words, HDR allows photographers to control both shadows and brightness within their photos to make their images appear more realistic, as opposed to being blown out (too light) or too dark.

Traditionally, this process is created by capturing multiple images in different exposure values, and then merging them together to create a single image. However, recent camera models have added an in-camera HDR mode, allowing photographers to create HDR photographs right on the spot, eliminating having to create them later during the workflow process.

One of cameras that possesses this mode is the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. The 5D Mark III allows the user to create an HDR image in five different forms: natural, art standard, art vivid, art bold, and art embossed, with each form having its own benefit in any given situation.

The following pictures were created to demonstrate a comparison between Canon’s in-camera HDR mode and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. The 5D3 is the first Canon SLR to offer in-camera HDR. Here is a side-by-side comparison and image of each mode:

Although I am now not the fan of HDR that I was in the past, I do believe that this feature can help magnify one’s creativity with their camera. In addition, I also believe that it is possible that one can yield even better results with their own post-processing techniques and/or by using an HDR post-processing program such as Photomatix Pro or Dynamic-Photo HDR in their work.

Hopefully, this comparison helps someone in this field of interest.

Tips for Producing High-dynamic Range Photographs

Try your best to keep the camera still when producing multiple exposures. This will limit any ‘ghosting’ within the final image. The best way to achieve good results is to use a tripod.
If you do not have a tripod or you cannot keep the camera still, shoot in RAW. This way you can create multiple exposures with one RAW image.
Practice makes perfect! Some people prefer mild HDR shots while others may prefer the over-cooked product. Outcomes are completely subjective, so you should find the application(s) that best produce what you would desire.