Exposure / Learn by doing
HDR explained simply
What is “HDR”?
High dynamic range: capturing or combining a wider range of bright and dark information, often using several exposures.
- 01Dark exposure
- 02Bright exposure
- 03Combined detail
How do you use HDR practically?
A small exercise
Photograph a still window scene with bracketed exposures. Merge gently and compare it with your best single frame.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does HDR solve a problem?
It can preserve interior detail and a bright outdoor view in the same finished image.
What can go wrong?
Strong HDR processing can create halos or an unnatural look. Moving people may leave ghosted edges.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Dark exposure → Bright exposure → Combined detail. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Exposure controls — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.