HDR Projects 7 already had a great HDR merging process and created high-quality compositions with ease. This includes control over the original bracketed photos and control over the final HDR file. Unlike some simple HDR programs, HDR Projects 8 gives the user complete control. Overall, the HDR process is incredibly detailed. You can choose from different HDR algorithms, including different scenarios such as “Daylight”, “Landscape”, and “Architecture.” These settings alter the HDR process in subtle ways to give a more realistic composite based on the type of photo. On the left-hand side, there is also a range of advanced HDR options. The “Edit Brackets” option allows you to edit the exposure and weighting of each bracketed shot to change the overall balance of the HDR composite. These allow you to edit the initial bracketed shots used to create the HDR image. For example, you can select the “Edit Brackets” and the “Edit Weightings” options. Next, there is a series of options to edit the underlying HDR process or edit the final image. The software then automatically analyzes and combines the files to create an HDR composite. Using the main menu, you either open a new project or a series of bracketed images. Whether you want to produce high-quality, realistic HDR photography or artistic creations, HDR Projects 8 offers the solution. The number of tools and features means that you can create incredibly detailed HDR shots exactly as you want them. The major benefit is the level of control. An optional tutorial would be useful here to explain to new users how to open bracketed images to create an HDR composite.Īurora HDR vs Photomatix Pro 6.1 HDR Night Photography: 11 Tips for Stunning Night Photos Upon opening the software, there is no explanation of how to create an HDR image. Graphics – DirectX compatible or with Retina 2 DisplayĪlthough its performance is excellent, some people may find HDR Projects 8 initially difficult to use.Processor – Core Duo or Intel processor.Operating System – Windows 7, 8, 10, or macOS 10.7 or later.HDR Projects 8 appears to be a reliable program that doesn’t put too much strain on your device. We are confident that – even with a basic computer – you should not have any performance problems. Even the Color and Focus Peaking modules caused no performance issues. Applying presets was also a quick process.

The bracketed photos loaded quickly, and the HDR process was complete in seconds. In other words, you can selectively control single colors in your images. These include color tone, saturation, exposure, and contrast. With an accent color selected, you can then edit the associated color parameters. Using the dropper tool, you can select any color in your HDR image. It’s found in the right-hand editing toolbar, and clicking it opens a new dialog box. The Color module is a fantastic improvement and a useful tool.

The image alignment process is also improved: During HDR preparation, image alignment is calculated more accurately.Īside from these excellent improvements to HDR file quality, HDR Projects 8 also includes several new tools: Color Module Each bracketed image is individually assessed for exposure and blur to identify outliers more accurately. There are several upgrades that result in better-quality HDR composites.įor example, the underlying technology that analyzes the exposure of each bracketed image is improved. The first things to note are the various improvements to the HDR creation process. Improved image alignment during the HDR process.Improved exposure analysis for HDR merging.The following are particularly notable improvements: Version 8 offers a balanced update that includes performance improvements, new tools, and vast upgrades to the HDR process. To start our HDR Projects 8 Review, it is important to understand what has improved from version 7. Overall, HDR Projects 8 is a significant improvement over its predecessor and is one of the best standalone HDR editing programs available. You can then choose from a variety of HDR presets or use post-processing tools to edit the final image as desired. In contrast, professional and experienced users can benefit from the advanced tools as well as the impressive level of control provided over the editing and HDR processes.įor accurate and realistic HDR creation, HDR Projects 8 allows you to edit the initial bracketed images.

However, beginners could find the interface and number of tools overwhelming.

The software is not process-hungry and doesn’t require a high-spec device to run smoothly.

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