HDR, Tone Mapping, Topaz/nik Filters, etc. ??

[Patrish]

I don't see a designated forum for post-processing photography, nor do I see any of it posted on this forum. I do a lot of this type shooting, but perhaps it is not encouraged here. (?) If so, please let me know and I will not post more.
C&C always welcome. Thanks for looking.

These were both taken this past fall in the area that's known as "downtown" Myrtle Beach.

[Richard A Busch]

I see it as travel or street or urban, and it is all photography. did you do it w/ single shots? I do some HDR work too.
Richard

[Patrish]

I started with Adobe Photoshop's "Merge to HDR" but then I discovered Photomatix, and later Topaz. With both these applications, I use a single image for tone mapping, which is a lot easier. I think both the above pictures were done with Topaz Lab's Topaz Adjust and/or Topaz Simplify 2. What do you use?

[Fibonacci]

It is easy to allow post-process filters like this to get gimmicky and contrived but you have managed to avoid that pitfall and imbue your images with some real character. I immediately thought of Edward Hopper's paintings when I saw your images and would suggest you check him out for yourself. I would also make two further suggestions: 1) keep pursuing this avenue, you're on the good track and I would encourage you to push for the limits, and 2) don't marry this technique. There is a good chance that you will one day find this filter somewhat limiting; don't be afraid to abandon it completely for a new direction.

[Patrish]

Fibonacci, thanks so much for posting a response. I've already found these filters limited. They don't suit every aspect of photography. But when one works, it can be effective. I've seen Topaz used to over-saturate, or more likely as a gimmick to cover inexperience. Garish and tacky images leave me shaking my head. But of course, we don't all see things the same way, and while I'm left wondering, someone else unfailingly says "Wow! Print it and hang it!" LOL!

Thanks for looking, and for your comments.

[Muskogeeradtech]

While I like Topaz adjust for it's WOW factor I think that you should not use it on living beings. It adds an effect that I call cartoonish. I agree that they do look striking but when I use this I use layers and remove it from people and animals. I find that it makes the pic much better.

[tremer]

I sometimes use topaz on a top layer then use the opacity to adjust the effect. I think dialing it back here just a little would have worked nicely. All opinion, and I like the shots, it definitely makes them interesting.

[cruzz]

Hello,


both the pics are very good but please tel me that what you did to make them look different i also wanna learn this type of things because i am new in this field.


thanks!!

________________
photos on canvas