HDR arises from the fact that the range of contrast that can be captured by an image sensor in a single shot is dwarfed by the range of contrast values that can be detected by the human eye. The result of which are images that appear tonally curtailed, or otherwise heavily biased in exposure. This is why you'll invariably come across pictures that, at the same time, contain regions of overexposure, underexposure, and only a portion, if at all, that is properly exposed.

You can't capture all the light information in a single exposure. But what if you took more than one exposure and then were able to select the regions from each and combine them in order to represent the scene properly? Well, you can - with HDRI.

While the camera can't "see" a very broad range of tonal quality at once, by combining multiple snapshots - typically three or more - at different levels of exposure, the breadth of tonal quality can be extended, ultimately resulting in more robust photographs.

This guide outlines concepts involved in HDR photography followed by a logical progression of steps in the production of high dynamic range images. It is directed toward anyone that has any interest in creative photography from beginner to professional.

In this guide you will learn: